Radio Etiquette
A comprehensive overview of the key principles and practices that ensure clear and secure radio communication:
1. Basic Rules of Radio Etiquette
Listen Before Transmitting: Always ensure the channel is clear before you speak. Wait for a pause in conversation to avoid interrupting.
Use Call Signs: Identify yourself and your unit using established call signs. This helps maintain clarity and security.
Keep Messages Concise: Be brief and to the point. Avoid unnecessary information to reduce confusion and maintain focus.
Use Standard Terminology: Stick to military jargon and standard phrases to ensure everyone understands your message.
2. Communication Protocols
Acknowledge Messages: Confirm receipt of messages by repeating key information back to the sender. This ensures clarity and understanding.
Avoid Personal Conversations: Do not discuss personal matters over the radio. Keep all communications professional and mission-focused.
Maintain Radio Silence: During sensitive operations, adhere to radio silence protocols to avoid detection by the enemy.
3. Security Measures
Do Not Transmit Sensitive Information: Never share confidential or classified information over the radio unless absolutely necessary and authorized.
Use Encryption When Required: For sensitive communications, utilize encrypted channels to protect information from unauthorized access.
Be Aware of Your Surroundings: Always consider the potential for eavesdropping. Speak clearly but discreetly, especially in hostile environments.
4. Handling Emergencies
Prioritize Emergency Communications: In emergencies, use the phrase “Mayday” or “Emergency” to indicate urgency. This alerts all units to your critical situation.
Follow Established Protocols: Adhere to the specific emergency communication procedures outlined in your unit’s SOP (Standard Operating Procedures).
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid Overlapping Transmissions: Never speak over someone else. If you hear someone transmitting, wait until they finish before responding.
Don’t Use Slang or Abbreviations: Unless they are widely recognized within the military context, avoid using slang that may confuse listeners.
Refrain from Emotional Responses: Keep your tone calm and professional, even in stressful situations. Emotional outbursts can lead to miscommunication.
6. Training and Practice
Regular Drills: Participate in regular communication drills to practice radio etiquette and improve proficiency.
Feedback Sessions: After operations, conduct debriefs to discuss communication effectiveness and areas for improvement.
How to use the Radio:
Say: “[Their call sign], this is [your call sign], radio check, over.”
Wait for: “[Your call sign], this is [their call sign], roger, over.”
10 Codes
10-1 = Receiving poorly
10-2 = Receiving well
10-3 = Stop transmitting
10-4 = Message received
10-5 = Relay message to ___
10-6 = Busy, please stand by
10-7 = Out of service, leaving the air
10-8 = In service, subject to call
10-9 = Repeat message
10-10 = Transmission completed, standing by
10-11 = Talking too rapidly
10-12 = Visitors present
10-13 = Advise Weather/Road conditions
10-16 = Make pick up at ___
10-17 = Urgent Call
10-18 = Anything for us?
10-19 = Nothing for you, return to base
10-20 = My location is _____
10-22 = Report in person to ___
10-23 = Stand by
10-24 = Completed last assignment
10-25 = Can you contact _____
10-26 = Disregard last information
10-27 = I am moving to channel ____
10-28 = Identify your station
10-29 = Time is up for contact
10-32 = I will give you a radio check
10-34 = Trouble at this station
10-35 = Confidential information
10-36 = Correct time is
10-39 = Your message delivered
10-41 = Please turn to channel
10-44 = I have a message for you
10-45 = All units within range please report
10-50 = Break channel
10-60 = What is next message number?
10-65 = Awaiting your next message/assignment
10-67 = All units comply
10-70 = Fire at _____
10-71 = Proceed with transmission in sequence
10-77 = Negative contact
10-91 = Talk closer to the microphone
10-93 = Check my frequency on this channel
10-94 = Please give me a long count (1-10)
10-99 = Mission completed, all units secure
Conclusion
Mastering radio etiquette is essential for maintaining operational effectiveness and safety in the field. By following these guidelines, soldiers can ensure clear, secure, and efficient communication, which is vital for mission success.
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