Communications "The Voice of Command"

Civil Air Patrol uses radio systems to provide control for mission and administrative operations.  Radio systems are operated on High Frequency (HF) and Very High Frequency (VHF) bands of the radio spectrum.  Authority to operate is derived from the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).  Frequencies are issued from the military portion of the spectrum, and as such are protected from routine disclosure under the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).  This is new to CAP and has prompted changes in the communications training system.

Nets are conducted on a recurring basis to allow for testing and training of radio operators and systems.  Communicators can qualify as Basic or Advanced, depending on the orientation and exam taken.  Basic communicators are expected to be able to operate radios, and advanced communicators are indoctrinated to system management, setup, maintenance, and programming.  Advanced communicators are also permitted to have callsigns issued to them and use personal radios that meet the type acceptance standards.

Radio operators carry a CAPF 76 (Radio Operator Authorization card) as evidence of completion.