COMSEC

Military abbreviation · Military Term

COMSEC
Stands forCommunications security
CategoriesMilitary

COMSEC stands for Communications security, a military term abbreviation.

Measures that protect communications from interception and exploitation, including encryption, secure handling of cryptographic keys and devices, and transmission security. Lapses can expose plans and unit locations to an enemy.

Example: Report any lost crypto fill device to the COMSEC custodian immediately.

Usage notes

COMSEC material is tightly controlled and audited, and losing a key or device can trigger an investigation. The National Security Agency sets COMSEC standards for the US government. Radio operators learn COMSEC discipline alongside call signs.

More military term abbreviations

  • CO – Commanding officer
  • COA – Course of action
  • COB – Chief of the boat
  • COCOM – Combatant command (command authority)
  • COIN – Counterinsurgency
  • COLA – Cost-of-living allowance
  • CONOP – Concept of operations
  • CONUS – Continental United States
  • COP – Combat outpost
  • CP – Command post
  • CQ – Charge of quarters
  • CQB – Close-quarters battle

See all 248 military term abbreviations →