Radio communication
Radio communication procedure includes various techniques used to clarify, simplify and standardize spoken communications over two-way radios. These procedures of communications are intended to maximize clarity of spoken communication and reduce misunderstanding. It consists of signaling protocol such as the use of abbreviated codes like the CB radio ten-code, Q codes in amateur radio and aviation, police codes, etc., and jargon.
Contents
ABCs of Communications
The following are the ABC's of Communication.
Accuracy
It pays to be sure of what your saying. Don't be the fool stuck correcting himself 20 + times just to get a single message out. Always double check your grids. Take the time to think of what to say, do not just say it!
Brevity
No one likes a Chatty Cathy, keep your traffic brief and to the point. Avoid long winded answers or requests. Again, as stated before, Take the time to think of what to say, do not just say it!
Clarity
Now this one is difficult because of teamspeak, computers, people from all over the world etc. However, as best as you can, be clear on what your trying to say. Put the coffee down, take the smoke out, if your dipping spit before you talk, and if English is not your first language then slow down what your saying and speak up.
Components of All Radio Transmissions
The following is the rough breakdown of a transmission so you can understand what goes where and why.
Call signs
Every type of unit, every type of squad, and every type of command element has a different call sign. Just from the call sign name itself you can usually tell what type of Unit that is, whether its a Mechanized Infantry Squad, or perhaps an Attack Helicopter Squadron. They are very important to know so you have an idea of 'whose who in the zoo'.
Initiating Traffic
When sending traffic the FIRST thing you should always say is the RECEIVING CALL SIGN. It allows everyone to know whom your trying to contact and thus allowing you two to send traffic. The SECOND thing you should say is YOUR CALLSIGN.
If the Receiver hears you, their own acknowledgment is very simple. All they have to say is one of two things. Either the RECEIVING CALLSIGN can say their own call sign only (e.g. "APACHE 1."), or they can say the proword SEND after they've already said their call sign. (e.g. "APACHE 1, SEND")
This is the most crucial instance in any traffic. If the Receiver doesn't know your talking to them they could just quickly be killed by that enemy you attempted to warn them about.
Message
Once you establish contact with the call sign you wish to speak to, there are a few things you must remember while keeping in mind the ABCs throughout. The first thing to remember is that before each transmission, ensure you say your call sign!
The second thing to remember is to ensure you say OVER at the end of each transmission. In some cases if the end of your sentence is understood then it may not be required, however, saying it is better than not.
Ending Traffic
The sending call sign is responsible for ending the transmission. There is only one exception and that is if the receiver was a higher 'Rank/Position/Command' then that of the sender. This is very simple, all you must do is at the end of your last message in which you expect no reply from once the traffic is basically finished, instead of OVER, just say OUT. however, do not say over and out! Its just not proper radio procedure and is...well.... Dumb.
Common terms
Affirmative
Yes
Negative
No
SEND
I have received your initial call; pass on the rest of your message.
Over
I have finished talking and I am listening for your reply. Short for "Over to you." "Over" and "Out" are never used at the same time, since their meanings are mutually exclusive. Therefore "Over and Out" should never be heard on a radio net.
Out or Clear
I have finished talking to you and do not expect a reply.
Roger
(RECEIVED, ROMEO, COPY)
Information received.
Copy
I understand what you just said (after receiving information).
Wilco
Will comply (after receiving new directions). Implies "roger".
Say again
Please repeat your last message (Repeat is not used as it is a specific command when calling for artillery fire)
Break
Signals a pause during a long transmission to open the channel for other transmissions, especially for allowing any potential emergency traffic to get through.
Break-Break
Signals to all listeners on the frequency, the message to follow is priority. Almost always reserved for emergency traffic.
Standby
(Wait one)
Pause for the next transmission. This usually entails staying off the air until the operator returns after a short wait.
Pan-pan
Maritime/aviation urgency call. Repeated three times. Has priority over safety calls.
Mayday
Maritime/aviation distress call. Repeated three times and at beginning of every following transmission relating to the current distress situation. Has priority over urgency and safety calls.
