• Battle Buddy – A military term referring to a partner assigned to you in training or deployment. You're responsible for each other's safety, well-being, and accountability. It’s a formal, structured relationship.

• Battle Friend – A personal term that evolves from shared experience. This is someone you fought beside, bonded with, and trust deeply. It's more emotional, long-term, and not necessarily assigned.

In short:
Battle Buddy is assigned.
Battle Friend is earned.