Adhering to our doctrine of 'milsim' requires an application of real-life military ideas and practices to prevent every mission from devolving into a shitstorm. This means applying realistic radio communications to facilitate ease of understanding and uniformity between units when carrying out operations. Having everybody reading from the same hymn sheet makes everything a lot easier in every regard - people may understand different phrases in different ways, so unifying this is key.
This manual is for all members of the organization. It is designed to support courses aimed at teaching the basic & advanced skills required to use radios effectively.
importance of clear and correct communications
To be effective, communications must be clear and correct. In many situations, a member must be flexible and sometimes monitor more than one channel. When communications are not brief or must be repeated due to being unclear or incorrect, it clogs up the net, impairs your situational awareness and simply make it hard to hear anything else.
Some best practices to observe when using radios are:
1. Always have a pen and paper available/or use the notepad mod to record. a) Call-signs
b) Frequencies c) Record of important transmissions
2. Always prepare for what you are going to say before you transmit it.
3. Before speaking, key up the radio and count to 1 to ensure your transmission is not cut off at the beginning.
The most important trait all members can possess is calm and focus during the chaos on the battlefield.
BASIC RADIO PROTOCOL
This refers almost explicitly to squad based level and above. Fireteam level communication, whilst obviously important in it's own regard, is not always governed by the same level of communication compared to the other levels.
For the more combat personnel inclined however, we do have expectations.
Those who enlist into the organization in any combat apparatus must be familiar with and comfortable using the following phrases and prowords.
Prowords is short for Procedure Words. These words have specific meanings that ensure all will understand the procedure. Words and numbers must be pronounced clearly in a specific manner to enhance clarity.
AFFIRM(ATIVE) / RECEIVED / ROMEO / ACKNOWLEDGED: Yes / I understand / I agree
ALL AFTER: Please repeat the message you just sent me beginning after the word or phrase said after this proword.
ALL BEFORE: Please repeat the message you just sent me ending before the word or phrase said after this proword.
ANSWER AFTER: The station called is to answer after call sign when answering transmissions.
ANSWER IN THE AFFIRMATIVE: Stated to have all users operate in official military terminology.
ASSUME CONTROL: You will assume control of this net/mission until further notice .
AUTHENTICATE: The station called is to reply to the challenge which follows .
AUTHENTICATION IS: The transmission authentication of this message is…
BREAK: I hereby indicate the separation of the text from other portions of the message.
BREAK-BREAK: Clear the air immediately, emergency transmission following.
BROADCAST YOUR NET: Link your net and send traffic.
CANCEL: Annul the previously transmitted clearance.
CHECK THAT: Examine a system, procedure or previously radioed transmission.
Transmission is in error, correction followed.
CLOSE DOWN: Stations are to close down when indicated. Acknowledgments are required.
CORRECTION: An error has been made in this transmission. Transmission will continue with the last word correctly transmitted. An error has been made in this transmission (or message indicated), the correct version is.
The following is a corrected version in answer to your request for.
CLEARED: Authorized to proceed under conditions specified.
CONFIRM: I request verification of: (clearance, instruction, action information).
CONTACT CALLSIGN Establish communications with designated callsign ASAP, over.
CONTACT CALLSIGN (ON THIS PUSH IN THE GREEN): Establish communications whenever available, over.
COME IN: I require your attention / Begin your transmission.
COPY: I understand your last transmission.
DISREGARD (THIS TRANSMISSION): Transmission is false / in error, cancel the message.
DO NOT ANSWER: Stations called are not to answer this call, indicate receipt of this message, or otherwise transmit in connection with this transmission. When this proword is employed, it shall be ended with the prowords OUT.
EXECUTE: Carry out the purpose of the message or signal to which this applies. Designated callsigns are typically utilized in conjunction.
ETA Estimated time of arrival
EXECUTE TO FOLLOW: Action on the message or signal which follows is to be carried out upon receipt of the proword EXECUTE.
EXEMPT: The addresses immediately following are exempt from the collective call.
FIGURES: Numerals or numbers follow.
FLASH: Precedence FLASH is reserved for initial enemy contact reports on special emergency operational traffic originated by specifically designated, high commanders of units directly after.
FROM: The originator of this message is indicated by the address designation immediately following.
GO AHEAD / SEND MESSAGE: Send your transmission.
GRID: The portion following is a grid reference.
GROUPS: This message contains the number of groups indicated. May apply both to friendlies and enemies.
GROUP NO COUNT: The groups in this message have not been counted.
HOW READBACK: How well can you hear me? (The responder will reply with: SOLID READBACK, GOOD READBACK, BAD READBACK)
I SAY AGAIN / I REPEAT: The following message is important / being repeated due to misunderstanding.
I SPELL I shall spell the next word phonetically
I AUTHENTICATE: The group that follows the reply to your challenge to authentication.
I READ BACK: The following is my response to your instructions to read back.
I VERIFY: The following has been verified at your request and is repeated. (To be used as a reply to verify)
I AM ASSUMING CONTROL: I am assuming control of this net until further notice.
IMMEDIATE: Precedence immediate is reserved for messages relating to situations gravely affecting the security of BLUFOR troops.
IMMEDIATE EXECUTE: Action on the message or signal following is to be carried out on receipt of the EXECUTE.
INFO: The addresses immediately following are a dressed for information.
INTERROGATIVE: I have a question.
INCORRECT / IN ERROR Your last transmission was incorrect. The correct version is.
LIMA CHARLIE: You are loud and clear.
MESSAGE: A message that requires recording is about to follow. (Transmission immediately after the call)
MORE TO FOLLOW: Transmission station has additional traffic for the receiving station.
NEGATIVE: No / I do not understand / I disagree.
NET NOW: All stations are to net their radios on the unmodulated carrier wave which I am about to transmit.
NO PLAY: During exercises the words NO PLAY are used to distinguish real activity from messages concerned with exercise play e.g. a real emergency or real casualty. The first words of any message is to contain the words exercise (nickname e.g. Red Flag) NO PLAY.
NOTHING HEARD: To be used when no reply is received from a call station.
NUMBER: Station serial number.
OUT: I have finished and do not expect a reply. (Since OVER and OUT have opposite meanings, they are NEVER used together).
OVER: I have finished and am awaiting your reply.
PRIORITY: Precedence PRIORITY is reserved for important messages requiring priority over routine traffic. This is the highest precedence that normally may be assigned to an administrative message.
RADIO CHECK: Confirm your radio is functioning properly.
RAISE Inform/notify
ROGER: I have received your entire transmission and understand.
RELAY (TO): Transmit this message to all addressees (or addressees immediately following this proword). The address component is mandatory when this proword is used.
RELAY THROUGH: Relay your message through call sign...
ROUTINE: Precedence ROUTINE is reserved for all types of messages that are not sufficiently urgent to justify a higher precedence but must be delivered to the unit without delay.
SAY AGAIN / REPEAT LAST: Please repeat your last transmission.
SEND TRAFFIC: I am ready to receive your message, report, etc.
SIGNALS: The groups which follow are taken from a signal book. (This proword is not used on nets primarily employed for conveying signals. It is intended for use when tactical signals are passed on non-tactical nets.)
SILENCE / RADIO SILENCE: Cease transmissions immediately. Silence will be maintained until lifted. (Transmissions imposing silence must be authenticated)
SILENCE LIFTED: Silence lifted. (When authentication system is in force, the transmission lifting silence is to be authenticated)
SPEAK SLOWER: Your transmission speed is too fast. Reduce speed of transmission.
STAND BY: This acts as either a wait request or a preparatory command. When used as a preparatory command, it is a warning to anyone listening that an important event is about to happen. When used as a wait request, it is a way to tell the person asking you a question that you need a few moments to get the answer.
STEPPED ON: Used to tell the last transmitting party that they were talked over by another person.
THIS IS: This transmission is from the station whose designator immediately follows.
THIS IS A DIRECTED NET: From now until further notice this net is directed.
THIS IS A FREE NET: From now until further notice this net is free.
TIME: The following is the time or date-time group of the message. Time to execute orders based on discretion of transmitter.
THROUGH ME: Relay your message through me
USE ABBREVIATED CALL SIGNS: Call signs are to be abbreviated until further notice.
USE ABBREVIATED PROCEDURE: As conditions are normal, all stations are to use abbreviated procedure until further notice.
USE FULL CALL SIGNS: Call signs are to be sent in full until further notice.
USE FULL PROCEDURE: As conditions are not normal, all stations are to use full procedure until further notice.
VERIFY: Verify entire message with the originator and send correct version.
WAIT / STANDBY -NUMBER-: Information is currently unavailable, expect a reply in -NUMBER- minutes.
WAIT OUT: Information is currently unavailable, expect a reply as soon as possible.
WILL COMPLY / WILCO: Will comply with new orders.
WHISKEY ROMEO: I register a weak but understandable signal.
WORD AFTER: The word of the message to which I have reference is that which follows...
WORD BEFORE: The word of the message to which I have reference is that which precedes...
WHISKEY UNIFORM: Unable to register communications.
The list above are NATO / United States Armed Forces prowords. There are more, a lot more, but these are the most relevant and necessary to understand. We expect people to learn these, especially if choosing a leadership role then having a brief understanding is key.
Additional & Repeated prowords
Individual Communication Protocols
BACKBLAST CLEAR Responsible for telling the shooter preparing to fire AT that their backblast is clear.
BOUNDING The act of moving from cover to cover.
CHARLIE MIKE Continue Mission or Continue Moving.
CLEAR Called during room clearing to signify no hostiles. Also ROOM CLEAR.
CLEAR BACKBLAST Signal given when preparing to deploy a launching system that friendlies should clear the backblast area.
COMBAT INEFFECTIVE Unable to fight.
COMING OUT Signal given by an individual or team that is about to exit a room in the vicinity of potentially unaware friendlies.
COMING IN Signal given by an individual that is about to enter a building which might contain unaware friendlies.
COMPROMISED This means you have been spotted or your cover is blown.
CONTACT A member has observed a potentially hostile contact or an indicator therefor, such as gunshot or tracer. Should be immediately followed by amplifying information such as bearing, distance, activity, and description.
Members should also keep in mind that this is an advisory statement, not an order to fire.
DANGER CLOSE Anything close enough to cause major harm. In ordnance terms, danger close is called any artillery or air strike that lands within 600m. In combat terms, danger close is any threat that is within 100m or so meters.
DISREGARD LAST Disregard previous transmission, statement or order.
DISMOUNT Exit a vehicle.
DOWN Used in conjunction with other pro-words to signify that person or system is no longer active or operating.
EGRESS Means you’re leaving the AO.
ENGAGE Attack.
ELEMENT Any unit that is friendly, enemy or neutral
EYES (direction/landmark) / EYES ON Shift your field of fire to whatever direction is called
FEET WET You are/have landed on water.
FEET DRY You are/have landed on land.
FRAG/SMOKE/FLASH OUT Deploying a grenade to counter hostiles.
FIRE IN THE HOLE (3x) Signal given prior to the detonation of explosive charges and explosives.
GO Execution to whatever orders they have been issued.
GO AHEAD/SEND TRAFFIC Speak and/or send information.
GRENADE A grenade has landed within the immediate vicinity of the fireteam and all members should seek immediate cover.
GRENADE AND CLEAR Preparatory order to breach and clear a space immediately after the detonation of a designated grenade. Can be modified for other types of explosives in the same manner as FRAG OUT.
GUN'S COLD / GUN's HOT Declares the state of fire something is currently in or that you wish it to be. Gun's cold is used mainly during stealth missions when nobody is supposed to fire or they will be compromised. Gun's hot basically means engage any target you see.
HIT Indicates a person or system has been wounded or damaged by incoming fire, but is still operating.
KLICK A kilometer, 1000 meters.
LAST MAN IN Called by the last man to enter a building or a vehicle.
LOW/MID/HIGH + DIRECTION Indicates the vertical and horizontal direction of an object, target or area. Orientation is used via relative, compass or clock bearing.
MAN Used to reference an unidentified individual. Typically referenced as "Military Aged Male".
MIKES Minutes
MOVE AND CLEAR Preparatory order to breach and clear a space without the use of explosives. Should not be executed until the order “GO or EXECUTE” is given.
MOVING The changing of positions. Called (usually) only by one member of the team.
OSCAR MIKE On Mission or On the Move.
OVERWATCH A secure position in which you can maintain a sight line over an area of operation.
PAYLOAD OUT Discharging of ordnance, rockets, missiles, machine gun fire, anything from a vehicle.
POINT The front man in a formation.
PRIORITY TARGET Declaration of which target is highest priority.
RANGING Attempting to hit a target at a distance.
RIGHT/LEFT FLANK Right or left of the formation.
REAR GUARD Rear of the formation
RELOADING Conducting the change of the magazine on a weapon.
SET (SET / COVERING) The element is set and covering. Called by every member of a team.
SITREP Situation Report. A request for information regarding what you’re doing.
STACK SET Called by the last man in a stack to notify the Team Leader that the entire stack is present and ready for orders.
TIME ON TARGET The estimated time when the payload hits/affects the target.
UP Used in conjunction with other pro-words to signify that person or system is transitioning from an inactive to active status.
VICTOR Military code for vehicle.
CONTACT REPORTS
A contact report is issued immediately after contact with hostile or unknown forces. In any area of operations. A contact report includes a verbal confirmation of “CONTACT” followed by a description of the threat or unknown force and the direction and distance to the target.
Example: “CONTACT, 3 times armed hostiles, 200 meters, direct south
More information on this via the "Communication" Tactical Guide, linked below.
1) Before you press the transmission button, gather your thoughts about what you are going to say. Many people with radios have a tendency to talk and/or repeat too much. Say what you need to say without unnecessary repeats. Keep in mind that your message should go through the first time – you may not have any opportunity to repeat it.
2) Give the call sign of the unit you are calling first. It will alert the addressee to focus on the incoming message. There might be more listeners and radio network users so you must let them know that this time there will be a message for them, not a usual background noise.
3) Introduce yourself by your call sign. Do not use real names or nicknames.
4) Don’t speak too fast especially if the message needs to be written down. Pause after logical phrases. High voice does not guarantee that you will be more readable.
5) Use “OVER”, “OUT” when you finish your message. It notifies the addressee that you finished your portion of information and wait for the response or just ended the transmission (“OUT” word).
6) When you have understood the message, acknowledge the receipt with the words “COPY“, “RECEIVED“, “ROGER” or “ACKNOWLEDGED.” The word “COPY” is preferred.
7) If the caller requires some actions you may use “WILCO” instead of “ROGER” to notify that you WILL COMPLY (=”WILCO”).
8) Use “BREAK, BREAK” whenever there is a radio traffic and you want to get through with your emergency message.
9) Answer each call to confirm reception. Use “RECEIVED”, “COPY”, “ROMEO” or “ACKNOWLEDGED.”
10) If you do not comprehend the message, do not confirm it. Use “SAY AGAIN”, or “STAND BY” instead.
11) Whenever a word must be spelled use NATO code words for each letter. Do not invent your own words – they might be misleading and not comprehensive.
12) Use single, cardinal numbers, do not combine them into bigger numbers.
FORMING A MESSAGE
To begin a standard message, the member must first flag the operator they wish to get a hold of. There are several ways of doing this, but for now we'll stick with either the unit callsign (ex. RAVEN-2 / FYDOR-6 / BRASSEYE-7) or the member currently in charge of that unit. (ex. Capt. Perez / Col. Radzikowski / Cpl. Robertson).
The transmitting operator will then identify themself using the same system, transmit their message slowly and clearly, making sure to avoid using large numbers (One-One-Niner instead of One-Hundred-and-Nineteen) before ending. If they expect a reply, the transmitter will follow with 'over', if they do not expect a reply, they will follow with 'out'.
Keep in mind a few things you always want to convey: Who you are.
Where you’re at.
What you’re capable of.
What you’re doing.
What you’re going or planning to do.
Acknowledge any incoming orders/information relevant to you.
A basic platoon level communication is below:
ALPHA ONE-TWO: ALPHA ONE-THREE, this is ALPHA ONE-TWO, come in, over. ALPHA ONE-THREE: ALPHA ONE-TWO, this is ALPHA ONE-THREE, we read you Lima Charlie, go ahead, over. ALPHA ONE-TWO: ALPHA ONE-THREE, you are to commence movement to waypoint CHARLIE and begin overwatch of the OPFOR compound as per mission briefing, over. ALPHA ONE-THREE: ALPHA ONE-TWO, ALPHA ONE-THREE copies, WILCO, out
And another example:
ROMEO: PAPA, this is ROMEO, come in, over. PAPA: ROMEO, this is PAPA, I read you Lima Charlie, send message, over. ROMEO: PAPA, be advised. As of currently WHISKEY's squad is experien- WHISKEY: Break-Break! ROMEO, we currently have three men KIA and medical supplies have run low, require support immediately, over. ROMEO: WHISKEY, I copy, out. ROMEO: PAPA, move and assist WHISKEY, over. PAPA: ROMEO, I copy, Wilco, out
Of course, communication gets all sorts of messed up during engagements... But following these simple steps will help maintain some sort of flow during operations.
Quality of transmission
In case of some interference or just to confirm how your message was received you may need to ask about the reception. In this instance we use “HOW DO YOU COPY?” or even shorter “HOW COPY?” To ask about general quality of the reception you may also ask “HOW DO YOU READ?” There are two ways of responding to such questions. You may simply answer “COPY LOUD AND CLEAR” (”LIMA CHARLIE”) or give the answerer the notion of the signal quality by giving the note from 1 to 5.
Example: COPY 3 by 5 The meaning of numbers used in assessment over the radio: 1 = Bad (unreadable);
2 = Poor (readable now and then);
3 = Fair (readable but with difficulty);
4 = Good (readable);
5 = Excellent (perfectly readable).
When repeat is needed It may happen that due to poor transmission or distracting factors some pieces of information should be repeated to avoid misunderstandings. In that case you may request repeat by saying “SAY AGAIN.”
Likewise, when you want to stress the importance of the message or simply make sure that important data get through, you say your message and then use “I SAY AGAIN” and repeat the message.
EXAMPLE: I need five more mikes, I SAY AGAIN, five more mikes…
Radio Checks
Radio checks should be used sparingly so as to not clog up the nets. Radio checks should be sent to the net owner, i.e. the command element on the frequency.
Radio Check: “Yankee Actual, this is Yankee 1 on frequency 50.0, radio check, over”
Responses: 1. If the transmission is loud and clear, respond “Yankee 1, this is Yankee Actual, you're Lima Charlie.”
2. If the transmission can barely be heard, respond “Yankee 1, this is Yankee Actual, you are Whiskey Uniform, over”
3. If the transmission is broken, respond “Yankee 1, this is Yankee Actual, Bravo Uniform, over”.
The originator of the radio check does not need to respond to a loud and clear response but should read back the responses for the stations that got less than perfect transmission acknowledging their comms are compromised. “Yankee Actual, this is Yankee 1, Whiskey Uniform, out”
Other examples of a communications check.
Delta 1: "Delta 2, THIS IS Delta 1, COMMO CHECK, OVER"
Delta 2: "Delta 1, THIS IS Delta 2, LIMA CHARLIE, OVER"
Delta 1: "Delta 2, ROGER, OUT"
(LIMA CHARLIE = Loud and Clear)
The following is an example transmission of a communications check using .
Delta 1: "Delta 2, THIS IS Delta 1, COMMO CHECK, OVER"
Delta 2: "Delta 1, THIS IS Delta 2, I READ YOU 5 by 5, OVER"
Delta 1: "Delta 2, ROGER, OUT"
Both replies are correct and have the same meaning. But if Delta 2 came in broken or static, the examples below could be used to replace 5 by 5.
Delta 1: "Delta 2, THIS IS Delta 1, COMMO CHECK, OVER"
Delta 2: "Delta 1, THIS IS Delta 2, I READ YOU 3 by 4, OVER"
Delta 1: "Delta 2, ROGER, OUT"
This would mean that the readability of the transmission was “readable but with difficulty” and the signal strength “good”.
When contacting distant stations, ensure you maximize the use of prowords and adhere to the following: Transmit clear, complete, and concise messages.
• Think
• Push
• Talk Speak clearly, slowly, and in natural tone, enunciate each word.
Listen before transmitting to avoid interfering with other transmissions.
Do NOT break in on another station while they are transmitting.
Try to avoid using profanity on the radio.
Try to avoid using personal names on the radio.
Pauses and Emphasis
Pauses are used to allow the receiving station time to copy as well as to indicate natural breaks in certain terms, i.e. a grid reference. The proper way to send a grid reference is 1234 PAUSE 5678. Emphasis is used for things like making correction to errors.
Example, you transmit "Grid 1234, 5678, over" and the receiver transmits "1234 5667", you should retransmit and call correction. "Your transmission is in error. I say again, grid 1234 56SEVEN8" emphasizing the seven heavily.
Fundamentals
As a general mnemonic the Radio "ABC" provides the general principles to follow for all radio communications:
• Accuracy: Try to make all radio transmissions as accurate as possible, if necessary double check the message you are about to send, and rerun the contents to eliminate any errors or inaccuracies.
• Brevity: As a general rule of thumb for all communications: Keep It Short and Simple. Try to convey information as effectively as possible.
• Clarity: Messages must not only be as accurate and short as possible, but the receiving station must also be able to understand them clearly. Try to speak as slow, steady and clear as possible at all times to combat statics and hissing.
Another common mnemonic to remember the fundamentals of radio communications is "CAROT":
• Concise: Keep It Short.
• Accuracy: Try to make all radio transmissions as accurate as possible.
• Relevancy: Only convey information that is actually relevant.
• Objective: Keep the scope and purpose of the message you are about to send in mind when composing it.
• Timely: Try not only to keep the messages as short and simple, but also try to send messages on time, when they are actually needed.
Designation Methods
In the context of Task Force Reaper, the size of an element can range from a small two man buddy team to an entire company-sized element based on the mission. The roles of all members will also vary depending on mission scenario and enemy composition. As a leader of a mission, they are able to choose between two methods of designation depending on mission profile and the number of friendly personnel.
Method 1: Conventional This method is typically used for larger compositions and easier communication. Individual callsigns are rarely given except to VIPs/HVTs/the highest ranking officer in the operation.
The callsign of an element is organized as follows: <name of the company> <name/number of the platoon>< ><name/number of the squad> <callsign of fireteam>
For example, 1st Platoon, Alpha Squad, Team 1, is the first fireteam, with the callsign of that fireteam using the handle "Alpha 1". Team members in that callsign will have a number at the end, such as Alpha 1-1 or Alpha 1 Actual.
Method 2: Special Operations This method is used for smaller, special operations teams for more accurate and effective communication. Individual callsigns are numbers based and are assigned to everyone on the team. This method is usually reserved for special operation forces or units that are part of a larger force that have slightly different objectives but are still working as part of the collective whole.
The callsign of a team is as follows: <clear and unique name> For example, a 12-man team could be designated “Ronin”, and the element leader would be “Ronin Actual” or "Ronin 1".
Message Precedence
The Combined Communications Electronics Board (CCEB), a five-nation joint military communications-electronics organization (consisting of Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, and the United States), uses the following message precedence designators, in descending order of importance:
FLASH (Z) is reserved for initial enemy contact messages or operational combat messages of extreme urgency. Brevity is mandatory. FLASH messages are to be handled as fast as humanly possible, ahead of all other messages, with in-station handling time not to exceed 10 minutes. Messages of lower precedence are interrupted on all circuits involved until the handling of FLASH messages is completed.
IMMEDIATE (O) is reserved for messages relating to situations gravely affecting the security of the nation. It requires immediate delivery. Examples include reports of widespread civil disturbance, reports or warning of grave natural disaster, and requests for or directions concerning search and rescue operations. IMMEDIATE messages are processed, transmitted, and delivered in the order received and ahead of all messages of lower precedence. They are to be handled as quickly as possible, with in-station handling time not to exceed 30 minutes. Messages of lower precedence should be interrupted on all circuits involved until the handling of the IMMEDIATE message is completed. The use of the letter "O" comes from the original name for this level, "operational immediate".
PRIORITY (P) is reserved for all traffic requiring expeditious action by the addressee or for conducting operations in progress when ROUTINE precedence will not suffice. PRIORITY precedence messages are processed, transmitted, and delivered in the order received and ahead of all messages of ROUTINE precedence. Examples include requests for supplies or equipment during the conduct of an operation, time-critical items requiring quick response, and situation reports. They are to be handled as quickly as possible, with in-station handling time not to exceed 3 hours.
ROUTINE (R) is used for all types of message traffic justifying transmission by rapid means, but not of sufficient urgency to require higher precedence. ROUTINE precedence messages are delivered in the order received and after all messages of higher precedence. Examples include any message that requires the documentation of its transmission or delivery; messages concerning normal operations, programs, or projects; and periodic or consolidated reports. They should be handled as soon as traffic flow allows, but no later than the beginning of the next duty day.
Flash Override (Y): The National Command Authority (usually the President of the United States) has access to a FLASH OVERRIDE (FO) capability. FO is not a precedence, but instead represents the authority and means to override all other traffic, including FLASH precedence messages. In written message traffic, the proword 'Y' is used to indicate a message having the authority to override all other traffic and is usually assigned to Emergency Action Messages (EAM).
PHONETIC ALPHABET
Reports and Returns
Pre-formatted reports are used to ensure that information is not missed while keeping radio transmission brief. Some common reports you will need to know are:
1. SPOTREP/RECREP (Spot Report/Recon Report) Generally used when units observe any known or suspected activity.
2. ACEREP (ACE Report) Used after successful enemy contact. Used to send the status of ammunition, casualties and equipment.
3. SITREP (Situation Report) To report unit tactical situation and status. It is submitted after significant events, or as otherwise requested.
4. OBSTACLE REPORT Used to report when a unit has encountered an obstacle. This report is used by command to assist decisions regarding movement and maneuver.
5. PATROL REPORT The duration and activity of patrols make a debriefing desirable. In such cases, a debriefing report format helps ensure the patrol reports all important information it has collected.
SPOTREP/RECREP
A SPOTREP takes priority over all other routine radio traffic. The initial SPOTREP/RECREP should follow no more than one minute after the contact report.
1. Format. State “SPOTREP/RECREP” or “UPDATED SPOTREP/RECREP” followed by pertinent information on these lines:
a) Line ALPHA: Observer or source (omit if it is the calling stations, use call signs or description otherwise.)
b) Line BRAVO: Activity or characteristic being observed. Use the SALT/SALUTE format as follows:
SALT/SALUTE
1. Size: The number of sighted personnel, vehicles or other equipment.
2. Activity: What the enemy is doing:
3. Location Grid coordinates.
4. Unit/Uniform: Unit if known, uniforms.
5. Time: Time the activity was observed.
6. Equipment: Report any weapon systems or vehicles
c) Line CHARLIE: Actions you have taken and your recommendations. Actions usually involve conducting additional reconnaissance to determine the complete enemy situation or recommending and executing a specific course of actions. In this event, it would be best to utilize the CARVER mnemonic prior to radioing in.
CARVER
Criticality: How important, in a strategic context, is the target? What effect will its destruction have on other elements of the target system? Is it more important to have real-time surveillance of the target (e.g., a road junction) than its physical destruction?
Accessibility: Can an Recon team reach or sense the target, keep it under surveillance for the appropriate time, and then exfiltrate after the target is struck?
Recuperability: When the target is destroyed by fire support or direct action, in the case of DA missions, can the enemy repair, replace, or bypass it quickly using minimum resources? If so, it may not be a viable target.
Vulnerability: Do Recon (including DA) and supporting units have the capability to destroy the target?
Effect: Beyond pure military effect what are the political, economic, legal, and psychological effects of destroying the target? How would the attack affect local civilians?
Recognizability: Can the target be recognized clearly, by Recon and attack forces, under the prevailing weather, light, and in its terrain? If there are critical points within the target, they also must be recognizable by the means of destruction used.
2. NOTE: Report the center of mass identical, closely grouped items. 3. Otherwise, report multiple grid coordinates of traces (From _________ to ________)
Example: “YANKEE 4, THIS IS YANKEE 2. SPOTREP, OVER. ONE BTR70, STATIONARY, ORIENTED SOUTH AT GRID 23441221, 1900 HOURS, CONTINUING TO OBSERVE, OVER.”
Ammunition, Casualties and Equipment Reports are usually called after each engagement. These reports are called to give your Commanding Officer information about your current situation.
ACE reports are sent as soon as a contact is complete, i.e after successfully assaulting a contact or breaking contact. It is a status report.
The leader of your element will call out “ACEREP” on the radio, where people in turn will give their ACEREP. To relay your ACEREP simply say your last name or callsign if given, and one of the following status levels depending on your situation:
GREEN – You are at full strength with 75% or more of your original ammunition or equipment. YELLOW – You are at reduced strength 50-75% of your original ammunition or equipment. RED – You are at reduced strength, injuries or 25-50% of your original ammunition or equipment. BLACK – You are at reduced strength, heavy injuries or 25% or less of your original ammunition or equipment. At this point the Command will decide if the member or team is still combat effective.
Ammunition Green = Plenty left Yellow = Expended roughly half Red = Less than 2-3 mags per person, not enough for another contact.
Casualties Green = No casualties Yellow = sustained an injury that will not impend their ability to fight Red = Critical injury or injury that prevents mobility Black = KIA (Remember be sure to announce how many have been WIA or KIA)
Equipment Any equipment expended or lost. Green = No change Yellow = Ammunition for AT and explosive platforms are expended Red = Mission equipment such as laser designator, AT, breaching charges, etc fully lost. Report any AT or AA rounds expended.
Example: “Yankee Actual, this is Yankee 1, ACEREP as follows, break. Overall ammunition yellow, break. Casualty check green break. Equipment yellow, 3x M136 AT expended, over.
Note: If you have ZERO casualties and no loss of equipment it is not required to be included in the ACEREP.
SITREP Report
The SITREP is submitted by subordinate units to their higher headquarters to report their tactical situation and status. It is submitted after significant events, or as otherwise requested by the Company Command.
There are two formats that may be used. Most commonly, the SITREP LACE system is exercised. If command requests more information, they may request that the caller utilize FORMAT2 for the SITREP.
Format 1 – State “SITREP”, followed by pertinent information on these lines:
1. LINE 1: LOCATION of UNIT Location of BLUFOR and additional friendly forces that may be operating with us.
2. LINE 2: ACTIVITY Brief activity of the friendly units.
3. LINE 3: CASUALTIES Casualties sustained.
4. LINE 4: EQUIPMENT Specialized equipment that the element has deployed such as:
a) AT/AA
b) Heavier Weaponry/Static Equipment
c) Vehicles
5. Summary of tactical intentions.
Example:
BLUFOR has arrived at its objective and is starting to clear buildings. Once complete, the element will eliminate a target marked for demolition. The element’s situation can be summarized with the following LACE details: Location - A grid ref has already been specified as Objective Kilo
Activity - The element is transitioning to the next phase of their assignment
Casualties - No casualties have been sustained thus far
Equipment - All mission equipment is operational (demolition charges)
Element initiates the following traffic Delta 1-6: “Delta 6, THIS IS Delta 1-6, SITREP, OVER.”
Delta 6: “1-6, SEND IT, OVER.”
Delta 1-6: “Line 3, Objective Kilo, clearing North to South, green and green, OUT”
Delta 6: “Delta 6, COPIES, clearing Kilo. OUT”
In-depth Example:
“Yankee Actual, this is Yankee 02, sending SITREP, break.
Yankee 02 LOCATION RP3, break.
Advancing towards OBJ Alpha, approach from south west to conduct Assault, break.
Line 1: The as‐of date‐time group (omit if time is now)
Line 2: Brief summary of casualties inflicted, and prisoners captured (omit if none)
Line 3: Friendly locations (If possible, encode location).
Line 4: Brief description of activity
• Patrolling
• Observing
• Attacking
• Clearing
• Breaking Contact
• Consolidating / Reorganizing
Line 5: Personnel strength, classified using the following status levels:
GREEN: full strength; 76 to 100%
AMBER: reduced strength; 26 to 75%
RED: compromised strength; 1 to 25% (the unit is not mission‐capable)
BLACK: zero strength; 0% (the unit is not mission‐capable)
Note: At the squad level, list the KIAs and critically wounded by name
Note: At Platoon and above only status values are necessary
Line 6: Mission equipment, vehicles, fuel, ammunition, classified using the following status levels for ammunition and fuel:
GREEN: full strength; 76 to 100%
AMBER: reduced strength; 26 to 75%
RED: compromised strength; 1 to 25% (the unit is not mission‐capable)
BLACK: zero strength; 0% (the unit is not mission‐capable)
Additionally, these formats may also be utilized.
Obstacle Report
Report all pertinent information using the following format:
1. LINE 1: Type of obstacle or obstruction.
2. LINE 2: Location Using grid coordinates. For large complex obstacles, send the coordinates of the ends and of all turn points.
3. LINE 3: Dimensions and orientation.
4. LINE 4: Composition.
5. Enemy weapons influencing obstacle.
6. LINE 6: Observer’s actions.
IED / UXO 9-Line:
LINE 1 - DATE, TIME, GROUP, ITEM DISCOVERED: Command policy will dictate local, Quebec or Zulu time.
LINE 2 - UNIT REPORTING ACTIVITY & LOCATION OF IED/UXO (6/8/10 DIGIT GRID): Mandatory 8 digit grid (include: landmarks, reference, points, or street addresses) Ex: “1234, 5678”:
LINE 3 - CONTACT METHOD: RADIO FREQ: CALL SIGN: Radio freq / callsign or telephone number (if using phone number, provide name)
LINE 4 - MUNITIONS TYPE & NUMBER: Dropped, projected, placed or thrown
LINE 5 - CBRNE CONTAINMENT: Yes or No, known or suspected NBC contamination. If yes, report type of agent if known/identified.
LINE 6 - RESOURCES THREATENED: What resource is threatened - is it a critical asset?
LINE 7- IMPACT ON MISSION: How the UXO is affecting the mission
LINE 8 - PROTECTIVE MEASURES: Describe the measures taken to protect personal/equipment
LINE 9 - RECOMMENDED PRIORITY: (Immediate, indirect, minor or no threat)
Patrol Report
Information collected by combat units is occassioanlly submitted using SPOTREPs as events occur. The duration and activity of dismounted patrols make a debriefing desirable. In such cases, a debriefing report makes ensure that the patrol reports all important information it has collected. The report may be submitted by radio when required.
The following debrief format can be used to ensure all pertinent information is provided in the report.
1. Designation of patrol. Include these elements: a) To: ____________________ b) From: __________________ c) Maps: __________________
2. Size of patrol.
3. Task.
4. Time of departure.
5. Time of return. 6. Routes (out and back)
7. Terrain. Included description of terrain by type (wooded, rocky, dry etc.)
8. Enemy. This includes details of enemy strength, defenses, equipment, movement, coordinates and time enemy activity was observed.
9. Map corrections.
10. Results of encounters with the enemy.
11. Conclusions and recommendations.
12. Additional remarks.
NOTE: The report should conclude with the name rank/grade, and unit of the patrol leader.
Re-Supply 6-Line
Initial Contact: "Alpha, this is Bravo, standby for Re-Supply 6-Line, over"
LINE 1 - Grid Example: “123 456”
LINE 2 - Callsign & frequency “Callsign & frequency remains the same”
LINE 3 - Patient/s by precedence “Routine, Priority, or Urgent”
LINE 4 - Equipment Needed: Ex: “30 mags of 5.56 and 20 MRE packets”
LINE 5 - LZ Security: Ex: “360 degree security on the LZ, little resistance to the North”
LINE 6 - Method of marking: (Smoke, Pyro, Other. Never say the color of smoke or marking unless defined in OPORD or SOP)
Medical Evacuation 9-Line:
Initial Contact: "Alpha, this is Bravo, standby for 9-liner, over"
LINE 1 - Grid (MANDATORY READBACK) Example: “115 373”
LINE 2 - Callsign & Frequency: “Callsign & frequency remains the same”
LINE 3 - Precedence: “Routine, Priority, or Urgent”
LINE 4 - Special Equipment Needed: Ex: “Surgical equipment, x6 mags of 5.56, 4 MREs” (Be specific)
LINE 5 - Patients by type (MANDATORY READBACK): (Ambulatory or Litter) Ex: “3x Ambulatory and 4x Litter” (Litter patients cannot walk, ambulatory patients can walk.)
LINE 6 - Security of Pickup sight: Ex: “360 degree security on the LZ, little resistance from the south”
LINE 7 - Method of marking (MANDATORY READBACK): (Smoke, Pyro, Other. Never say the color of smoke or marking unless defined by OPORD or SOP)
LINE 8 - Number of Patients nationality: • US MIL (U.S. Military), • FOREIGN MIL (Foreign Military), • EPW (Enemy Prisoner of War), • US CIV (U.S. Civilian), • FOREIGN CIV (Foreign Civilian).
LINE 9 CBRN Threat or Terrain Description: “No known Contaminants / Terrain is an open field surrounded by hills”
(Receiver: “Be advised, helo is en-route to your pos, ETA 20 mikes”)
ZMIST Report
Initial Contact: "Alpha, this is Bravo, standby for ZMIST, over"
(If you have more than one patient, give a ZMIST for each patient.)
Patient #: (Patient one or more)
Zap number: (First and Last initial, last 4 of tag number, add unit or unit type if patient represents a specific unit, blood type) Ex: “MR2234 1IR, ONEG”
Mechanism of Injury: (What caused the injury) Ex: “Enemy small arms fire”
Injury sustained: (Fall, MVA, GSW, RPG, IED/Mine
or Abrasion, Avulsion, Contusion, Crush, Cut, Laceration, Velocity, Puncture.)
Ex: “3x Velocity wounds to the chest, 2x lacerations to the legs”
Treatment rendered: Ex: Elastic bandages & quicklot applied to chest, x1 tourniquet applied to left leg.
(You: “How copy on all?”) (Receiver: “Roger, solid copy. Patching you into the helo now for the LZ brief”)
LZ Brief
Initial Contact: "Alpha, this is Bravo, standby for LZ Brief, over"
LOCATION: Grid 123, 456
LINE 3 CALL SIGN: Remains the same
LINE 4 FREQUENCY: Remains the same
LINE 5 LZ MARKING: (Smoke, Pyro, Other. Never say the color of smoke or marking unless defined by OPORD or SOP)
LINE 6 WIND DIRECTION & VELOCITY: Ex: “Winds blowing North to South” LINE 7 ELEVATION / SIZE: (Rough estimation of the elevation and size of the LZ) LINE 8 OBSTACLES: Ex: “Powerlines to the Southwest, buildings to the West”
LINE 9 FRIENDLY POSITIONS (DIR / DIST): Ex: “We are 100 meters South of the LZ” LINE 10 ENEMY POSITIONS (DIR / DIST): Ex:“Enemy is to the North 500 meters from the LZ”
LINE 11 LAST FIRE RECEIVED (TIME / TYPE): Ex: “Last fire received was small arms at 1425 hours”
LINE 12 DIRECTION OF FIRE & DISTANCE: Ex: “Fire was directed to the North 200 meters away” LINE 13 CLEARANCE TO FIRE (DIR / DIST): Ex: “South to Southeast 150 meters”
(You: “How copy on all?”) (Receiver: “Roger, solid copy.”)
Base Incursion/Excursion:
Initial Contact: "Alpha, this is Bravo, requesting to depart from / enter into (friendly lines) at (Local time) with (number of personnel/pacs) in a (number of vehicles and vehicle types)
(Receiver: “Roger, granted / denied”)
UTILIZATION OF RADIOS
Task Force Reaper uses three radio series during communications. The PRC-343 personal radio series for fireteam members, the AN/PRC-152 personal radio series for fireteam leaders & above, and the AN/PRC-117F long range radio series for leadership and vehicles. In this example, the AN/PRC-152 radio series will be used.
AN/PRC-152
The AN/PRC-152 Multiband Handheld Radio (Harris Falcon III) is a portable, compact, tactical software defined combat net radio manufactured by Harris Corporation. It is considered to be a a short range (5,000m) radio. This radio is assigned to all personnel alongside the PRC-343 in operations and is primarily used for communication on a platoon/squad level.
The frequency range is 30-512 MegaHertz. Default transmit button is CAPS LOCK.
Initial Setup and Functions Initial setup of the AN/PRC-152 includes setting the main frequency, volume and stereo settings.
Basic Usage
• Function Switch – Left and right clocking the function switch will cycle between the 1st and 6th preset channel on the radio. Additionally this can be used to turn off the radio by placing the switch in the left most position, turning it back on to any of the channel positions will turn the radio back on.
• Volume control – The radio volume can be adjusted using the volume control button on the left hand side of the radio, above the large press to talk key. Left clicking on this will increase the volume, while right clicking will decrease the radio volume. The volume setting will be displayed on the LCD Screen when you use this button.
• Changing channels – Click PRE +/- to change between channels. Alternatively, you can use the top knob to switch between channels 1-6.
Programming Instructions
The Farris radio operating system follows a standard across all Farris radios for operational programming, usage and menu navigation.
• Navigation - Menus and items are navigated with either the UP-DOWN or LEFT-RIGHT arrows; depending on the menu type. CLR will take you back at any time, and ENT is generally used for saving values. If you use CLR to back out of a menu, those settings are not saved. As you navigate through a series of menus, those values are not saved to the radio until the cycle is complete.
• Entering Values - Numerical values are entered with the number pad, clicking left and right to navigate the digit. Alphanumeric values are entered the same way, by repeatedly pressing the given button and cycling through letter options. Upon pressing a different button, that value is entered and the menu is moved to the next digit.
Operational Programming
All operational programming modes are accessible through pressing 7-OPT button. Once entering this menu, you’ll receive the operational programming menu. Operational changes to a radio are erased when the current channel is changed, unless auto-saving is on.
• Enable/Disable Radio Speaker
• Press 7 – OPT Button
• Scroll to “Radio Options” hit ENT
• Scroll to “Radio Speaker” hit ENT
• Scroll until the screen reads “ON”
• Hit ENT to save your settings
• Hit CLR to return to home screen
Preset Programming
All operational programming modes are accessible through pressing 8-PGM->System Presets menu. Once entering this menu, you’ll receive the operational programming menu. Operational changes to a radio are erased when the current channel is changed, unless auto-saving is on.
• Programming a NET Preset - Press PGM, select System Preset Settings, select System Presets, use UP/DOWN to navigate the preset to modify. Begin changing settings.
• Frequency
1. Click 8 – PGM to enter preset programming mode
2. Click ENT on “System Presets”
3. Click ENT on “System Preset Config”
4. Choose channel you wish to change, hit ENT.
5. Change channel description (optional), hit ENT
6. Scroll to “Frequency” and hit ENT
7. Change waveform type (Optional), hit ENT
8. Change RX (Receive) Frequency, hit ENT
9. Set to “Receive Only” (optional, default “NO”), hit ENT
10. Change TX (Transmit) Frequency, hit ENT
11. Hit CLR to return to main page.
AN/PRC-77 Diagram
AN/PRC-117F Diagram
Troubleshooting Communications
If you are unable to make contact with another element, you should try these basic troubleshooting steps: 1. Check to make sure you are using the correct radio. 2. Check your radio to ensure it is set to the correct frequency.
3. Check your position to ensure that you are in range.
4. Check your location to ensure you are not on dead ground.