PART A - SINGLE-CHANNEL RADIO AND WIRE COMMUNICATIONS
1.
Overview. As the signal officer providing signal support in a brigade or battalion, you must be
very familiar with the different means of communications. The following description of the
employment of single-channel radio, its capabilities and limitations, and its tactical applications is based
on FM 24-18, Tactical Single-Channel Radio Communications Techniques.
a. Employment. Mobility is one of the keys to success on the modern battlefield. All
communications must be geared to support a combat force that must repeatedly move to survive and
fight the enemy. The single-channel radio is the primary means of communication for command, fire
control, exchange of information, administration, and liaison between and within units. The versatility
of radio makes it readily adaptable to rapidly changing tactical situations. Radio is essential for
communicating over large bodies of water, territory controlled by enemy forces, and terrain where the
construction of wire lines is impossible or impractical. It is also required for air assault operations.
b. The capabilities of single-channel radio make it flexible, securable, mobile, and reliable.
(1) Radio communications facilities usually can be installed more quickly than wire
communications. Thus, radio can be used as a primary means of communications during the initial
stages of combat operations.
(2) Once installed in a vehicle, aircraft, or ship, the equipment is ready for use and does not
require reinstallation. Wire communications require reinstallation with each move.
(3) Radio equipment is designed to meet mobility requirements and is used by airmobile,
amphibious, mechanized, and dismounted units.
(4) Radio lends itself to many modes of operation, such as radiotelephone, radiotelegraph,
radio teletypewriter (RATT), visual presentation, and data.
(5) All of the modes of operation are securable when the required security equipment is
available.
(6) Natural obstacles, mine fields, and terrain under enemy control or fire do not limit radio
to the same extent that they limit other means of communications.
(7) By using special techniques, radio can interface with other communications means (net
radio interface), be separated from the immediate vicinity of the user (remoting), and operate over
extended distances (retransmission).
SS0120
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