"Take up battle stations" is an expression commonly used in military settings to indicate that troops should prepare for battle. Synonyms for "take up battle stations" include "man the guns," "prepare for combat," "get ready for action," "stand to," "ready the troops," "assume battle positions," "charge the positions," "suit up for battle," "prepare for war," and "prepare for engagement." In each of these cases, the intention is clear: troops should be ready to fight at a moment's notice, with their weapons at the ready and their minds focused on the task at hand. Whatever phrase is used, the message is clear: it's time for action.