text: Introduction
  While U.S. forces are among the most technologically advanced forces in the world, the need for redundancy
  and interoperability between joint and multinational forces requires the continued use of analog
  communication systems. Other circumstances that require the use of voice message formats include attacks
  on communication networks, failures of equipment, and inhospitable locations. This manual provides the
  Army with an effective means of communicating with joint and multinational forces that do not operate on
  parallel communication platforms. As U.S. Army communications strategies evolve, the need to
  communicate expeditiously and succinctly via voice remains.
  FM 6-99 is the U.S. Army’s doctrinal library for report and message voice templates. It saves units time and
  resources in developing internal formats. FM 6-99 formats are derived from United States message text
  format (USMTF), variable message formats (VMFs), command post computing environment (also known as
  CPCE) systems, NATO standardization agreements (STANAGs), historical Army reports, and allied
  procedural publications (APPs). The authorities for the United States message text formats in FM 6-99 are
  MIL-STD-6040B and CJCSI 6241.04C.
  As a user’s manual, FM 6-99 influences future Army information systems, user interfaces, and report and
  message graphics. Formats included in FM 6-99 are the means through which the Army adapts multiple
  reporting sources into a user-friendly, standardized message format library. FM 6-99 enables Army units to
  synchronize with joint and multinational communication structures without modifying their normal mode of
  operation with similar reports.
  Units use FM 6-99 report and message formats for all voice reporting. A unit will not modify these formats
  unless authorized by the unit commander to allow for expanded critical information requirements, which
  should be articulated in a unit standard operating procedure. This manual does not include many
  branch-specific or technical report and message formats that are contained in FMs and other publications
  published by their respective proponents. FM 6-99 does not supersede branch-specific or technical reports,
  but units should use FM 6-99 formats whenever possible.
  Chapters 1 and 2 instruct users how to transmit written and voice reports and messages. Appendix A contains
  message formats.
  This manual reflects updated changes in doctrine and procedures from previous editions. FM 6-99 now
  provides users with reports that are easier to transmit and pertinent to the modern battlefield. This revision—
  (cid:122) Removes some reports or messages and retains only the most widely used today.
  (cid:122) Adds new reports and messages reflecting modern formats and needs.
  (cid:122) Modifies existing reports or messages to correspond with evolving battlefield and staff needs.
  (cid:122) Consolidates numerous reports to provide effective messaging and reduce repetitive messages.
  (cid:122) Eliminates repetitive lines for message brevity and clarity.
  (cid:122) Updates references and terminology to reflect the latest doctrine.
  FM 6-99 deletes, adds, or modifies reports listed in introductory tables 1, 2, and 3 on page xii to adapt to
  modern needs and as requested from the field, centers of excellence, and the community of interest. Some
  report and message formats contained in FM 6-99 are similar to USMTFs but vary slightly to accommodate
  modern U.S. Army needs—these formats do not have associated USMTF numbers.