Quick answer
Lima represents L in the International Code of Signals. Its single-letter message is “You should stop your vessel instantly.” The reference chart depicts a yellow-and-black quartered flag. Source: Publication 102.
| Property | Evidence-supported description |
|---|---|
| Letter and spelling word | L — Lima |
| Pronunciation | LEE MAH |
| Morse equivalent | Dot–dash–dot–dot (· − · ·) |
| Reference appearance | Yellow and black, quartered; depicted as a square in Publication 102. |
| Manufacturing proportions | No universal hoist-to-fly requirement established here; the reference illustration is not a dimensioned manufacturing specification. |
| Exact colours | No textile colour standard, Pantone value or RGB/HEX specification established by the reviewed evidence. |
Construction and artwork limits
Use the official identification chart to establish the quartered colour pattern, not to infer exact dimensions, seam allowances or tolerances. Common manufactured proportions require separate supplier or procurement evidence. Screen colours would be approximations unless supported by a specified colour standard; any newly drawn diagram would be an editorial reconstruction rather than an official master.
Historical context
The revised Code was adopted by IMCO in 1965. Publication 102 states that the 1969 edition took effect on 1 April 1969; the cited United States edition was revised in 2003. These dates describe the Code and publication, not the first appearance of Lima’s design. This record does not establish a Lima-specific adoption date or certify that the 2003 publication incorporates every later amendment. Publication 102, title page and preface.