What Does a Click Mean in Military?
In the military, a "click" is a term used to describe a specific unit of measurement in angular distance, typically used in artillery and aviation contexts. In this article, we will delve into the meaning of a click in military terminology, its history, and its applications.
What is a Click?
A click is a unit of measurement that represents a change in angle of 1/40th of a minute of arc. This means that if you move an object or a sight 1 click, it will change its angle by 1/40th of a minute of arc. To put this into perspective, a minute of arc is equivalent to 1/60th of a degree, so a click is equivalent to 1/2400th of a degree.
History of the Click
The origin of the click dates back to the early days of artillery, when gunners used a system of angular measurements to adjust the elevation and azimuth of their guns. The click was used as a convenient and practical way to measure small changes in angle, allowing gunners to make precise adjustments to their aim.
How is a Click Used in Military?
The click is used in various military contexts, including:
- Artillery: In artillery, the click is used to measure the elevation and azimuth of a gun. Gunners use a click scale to adjust the angle of the gun, allowing them to accurately target enemy positions.
- Aviation: In aviation, the click is used to measure the direction and angle of a aircraft’s heading. Pilots use a click scale to adjust the direction of their aircraft, allowing them to navigate and engage targets with precision.
- Optics: In optics, the click is used to measure the angle of adjustment on telescopes and binoculars. This allows operators to adjust the sight to accurately target enemy positions.
Types of Clicks
There are several types of clicks used in military contexts, including:
- Angular click: This type of click measures the change in angle of a gun or aircraft.
- Azimuth click: This type of click measures the change in direction of a gun or aircraft.
- Elevation click: This type of click measures the change in angle of elevation of a gun.
Table: Types of Clicks
| Type of Click | Description |
|---|---|
| Angular Click | Measures change in angle of a gun or aircraft |
| Azimuth Click | Measures change in direction of a gun or aircraft |
| Elevation Click | Measures change in angle of elevation of a gun |
Significance of the Click
The click is a significant unit of measurement in military contexts because it allows operators to make precise adjustments to their aim or direction. This is particularly important in situations where accuracy is critical, such as in artillery or aviation operations.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a click in military terminology refers to a unit of measurement that represents a change in angle of 1/40th of a minute of arc. The click has a rich history dating back to the early days of artillery, and is used in various military contexts, including artillery, aviation, and optics. Understanding the concept of a click is essential for military personnel to accurately adjust their aim or direction, and is a critical component of military operations.
References
- United States Army Field Manual 3-22.90: Artillery Operations (2017)
- United States Air Force Aerospace Medicine Handbook: Navigation and Orientation (2019)
- Military.com: What is a Click in Military Terms? (2020)
