MK, in the context of military designations, is not typically used by the Army. The Army primarily uses "M" to designate "Model" for its equipment and weapons. The designation "Mk" or "Mark" is more commonly associated with the Navy.
M vs. Mk: Understanding the Difference
| Designation | Meaning | Branch of Service | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| M | Model | Army | M4 Carbine |
| Mk | Mark | Navy | Mk 48 Torpedo |
In essence, when you see "M" followed by a number in the Army, like the M1 Abrams tank or the M16 rifle, the "M" stands for "Model," indicating a specific version or design of that equipment. The Navy uses "Mk" (Mark) in a similar fashion to designate the model or version of its weaponry and other equipment.
