Maritime flags, also known as signal flags, are used by ships to communicate important information at sea. Each flag represents a letter of the alphabet or a specific message, allowing vessels to convey their status, intentions, or requests to other ships. The International Code of Signals (ICS) standardizes these flags, ensuring that sailors worldwide can understand the messages being sent. In addition to the ICS, some countries have their own unique maritime flags, such as the United States Navy or the Royal Navy. These flags can indicate a ship's nationality, rank, or specific missions. Overall, maritime flags play a crucial role in maritime safety and communication.