What does "Cherubs" refer to in aviation terminology?

In aviation terminology, "Cherubs" refers to the height of friendly aircraft expressed in hundreds of feet above the surface. This term is used primarily in military communications to provide a clear and concise way to convey altitude information, important for maintaining situational awareness and avoiding friendly fire incidents. Understanding the altitude of friendly aircraft helps pilots and air traffic controllers coordinate operations and ensure the safety and effectiveness of missions.

In contrast, other terms in aviation refer to different aspects of flight operations, such as altitude metrics for enemy aircraft or distance to target, which are distinctly separate considerations. Flight speed of the aircraft, while critical to mission planning and execution, is categorized differently and does not fall under the "Cherubs" vocabulary. Thus, recognizing "Cherubs" as a specific terminology related to the altitude of friendly forces helps clarify communication in the complex environment of aviation operations.