General
weapons hold
What does weapons hold mean?
An air-defense/fire-control order prohibiting engagement except in self-defense or on a direct order — the most restrictive weapons-control status.
""Weapons hold — hold fire, friendly aircraft transiting the sector.""
Origin
US/NATO air-defense weapons-control terminology.
Frequently asked questions
What does "weapons hold" mean?
It's the most restrictive fire-control status: do not fire at all except in self-defense or when specifically ordered to. It's essentially a hold-fire command.
When is "weapons hold" ordered?
It's used when the risk of hitting friendly or non-hostile aircraft is high — for example when friendly aircraft are transiting the area — so fire is prohibited unless absolutely necessary.
How do the three weapons statuses compare?
From least to most restrictive: 'weapons free' (fire at anything not friendly), 'weapons tight' (fire only at confirmed hostiles), and 'weapons hold' (don't fire except in self-defense).
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