Phonetic alphabet

The Phonetic Alphabet is a system of spelling alphabet used by the United Nations Space Command, derived from the NATO phonetic alphabet. It is used, most commonly by the military, to spell parts of a message containing letters and numbers to avoid confusion that may arise from phonetically similar letters, especially if static or other interference is present.

Uses

 * Pelican dropships are identified by a serial number consisting of one letter from the Phonetic Alphabet and three numbers. Examples: Echo 419, Victor 933, Bravo 022, Kilo 023.
 * Fireteams are distinguished by Phonetic letters. Example: Fireteam Zulu.
 * Bumblebee lifepods have serial numbers using three letters from the Phonetic alphabet.
 * Marines use them in place of abbreviations in the field for weapons, vehicles, units, and sometimes common sayings.
 * Covenant forces are called "Echo Tango" (E.T.) in battle, which is often shortened to just "Tango".
 * A nickname for Brutes is "Baby Kong." Marines often say "Bravo-Kilo" instead, usually in interviews or testimonials.
 * Dutch uses "Oscar-Mike", meaning "On the move." Also he is often heard using "Mike-Foxtrot" as self-imposed censorship for "mother fucker."
 * SPARTANs are often referred to as "Sierras" by themselves and other UNSC personnel.
 * Dr. Catherine Halsey uses the Phonetic alphabet to construct an alias matching her initials, "Charlie Hotel", in the epilogue of Halo: Contact Harvest.