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There are various methods that the flags can be used as signals:
  • each flag spells out a letter of an alphabetic message.

  • individual flags have specific and standard meanings; for example, Diving Support Vessel s raise the "A flag" indicating their inability to move from their current location because they have a diver underwater.

  • one or more flags form a code word whose meaning can be looked up in a code book held by both parties. An example is the Popham Numeric Code used at the Battle Of Trafalgar .

  • in Yacht Racing and Dinghy Racing , flags have other meanings; for example, the P flag is used as the "preparatory" flag to indicate an imminent start, and the S flag means "shortened course".


NATO uses an extra set of flags to communicate specific types of messages.


LETTERS




OTHER FLAGS



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