Understanding Blue on Blue and Green on Blue: Terminology and Contexts

Understanding Blue on Blue and Green on Blue: Terminology and Contexts

When discussing the military context, blue on blue and green on blue are terms that hold significant meaning. These phrases are used to describe inadvertent clashes or shootings between members of the same side, often in a combat scenario. Let's delve into these terms, their origins, and how they are used in various fields.

What Does Blue on Blue Mean?

The term blue on blue is often employed in military contexts and can also be found in artistic and design applications.

Military Context

In the military, blue on blue specifically refers to incidents of friendly fire, where friendly forces unintentionally fire upon one another. This concept originated in the British military in the early 1980s and has since spread globally, also applying to police forces. The term is a reference to the standardized military symbols used on maps, where blue is used to denote friendly units, red for enemy units, and green for neutral units. Thus, blue on blue can be explained as friendly units firing on one another.

Art and Design

Subsequently, the term blue on blue has transcended its military roots and been adopted in artistic and design contexts. It can describe scenes that feature prominently using blue tones and lighting, often to create a specific mood or atmosphere. This usage can be found in film, media, and packaging design, where blue tones and lighting are used purposefully.

Green on Blue: A Bit More Complicated

The term green on blue is more complex. It originally emerged in the context of the Iraq War and Afghan conflict. In these contexts, green on blue refers to incidents where local security forces (green) attack or incorrectly identify US or allied forces (blue).

Historical Context

Notably, the term green on blue was coined when US General Raymond Odierno, in 2009, referred to the threat of local security forces (green) targeting US personnel (blue) in Iraq. This usage reflects a nuanced understanding of military dynamics, where local allies may exhibit a mix of loyalty, neutrality, and hostility.

Incidents of Fratricide

The term green on blue is a subset of fratricide or "friendly fire." In military operations, these incidents can be extremely dangerous and often result from communication breakdowns or similar issues.
In this context, green on blue specifically refers to local security forces mistaking coalition or friendly forces as enemy targets. The term highlights the complexity of modern warfare, where the distinction between friend and foe can become blurred.

Use in Media and Design

Beyond military contexts, the term green on blue and blue on blue can also be used in media and design. In film and media, scenes or images with prominent blue tones and lighting may be described using these terms to convey a specific atmosphere or mood.

Conclusion

The terms blue on blue and green on blue represent important concepts in military and social contexts. They highlight the complexities and challenges of modern warfare and communication in chaotic environments. Whether used in military strategy, design, or media, these terms provide valuable insights into the dynamics of conflict and cooperation.