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International maritime signal flags are various flags used to communicate with ships. The principal system of flags and associated codes is the International Code of Signals . [ 1 ] Various navies have flag systems with additional flags and codes, and other flags are used in special uses, or have historical significance.
To avoid having to carry multiple sets of signal flags, the Code uses three "substitute" (or "repeater") flags. These repeat the flag at the indicated position. For instance, to signal MAA ("I request urgent medical advice" the Mike, Alfa, and 2nd substitute flags would be flown, the substitute indicating a repeat of the second character.
But they retain additional flags for naval usage (such as related to maneuvering or status), and use their own codes. E.g., in the ICS the single flag Mike means the vessel is stopped; in the U. S. Navy it means the duty medical officer is on board. Flaghoist was the only way ships could signal prior to the advent of radio and blinking light ...
A designator flag is used to indicate if a flaghoist signal is meant to be interpreted as an ICS signal or as a naval signal. The U.S. Navy uses a set of 68 flags, including flags for each letter of the alphabet and each numeral to convey messages of tactical or administrative nature. [2] [better source needed]
By 1653, the Royal Navy had issued instructions by which an admiral could signal various orders by hoisting flags in various locations on his ship. Modern naval code signalling began with the invention of maritime signal flags in the mid-17th century by the then-Duke of York (subsequently James II of England ) [ 2 ] who was created Lord High ...
International maritime signal flags; J. Jack (flag) Japanese Navy Signal Flags; Jolly Roger; L. List of Polish naval and maritime flags; P. Philippine coastwise emblem;
Naval flags, both Naval jacks and naval ensigns, are a subset of Maritime flags flown by naval forces. There are several lists of naval flags, organised by present or former country: Current countries
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