NATO Phonetic Alphabet
A spelling alphabet is used to spell parts of a message containing letters and numbers to avoid confusion, because many letters sound similar, for instance “n” and “m” or “f” and “s”; the potential for confusion increases if static or other interference is present. Distortion, background noise, poor signal and even the accent or dialect of the speakers can all hamper the effectiveness of a message getting through.
Ashore we often use the phonetic alphabet when giving postcodes or spelling names over the phone and afloat we may also need to spell a vessel name or a location. You can learn more about the NATO phonetic alphabet at: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/NATO_phonetic_alphabet
It is essential that you learn the phonetic alphabet prior to attending your course. Please work though the file below for some exercises to practice your alphabet. You should be able to view on the page, download or print.
