CHAPTER 2
VOICE COMMUNICATIONS
Upon completing this chapter you should be able to do the following:
Identify circuit procedures, discipline, and techniques in voice
communications.
Describe radiotelephone (R/T) security elements, voice procedures, and
basic message formats.
Explain the use of R/T call signs, circuits, and nets.
Explain the use of R/T executive methods.
Identify the use and format for R/T circuit logs.
Whether you are ashore or at sea, your professional
duties as a Radioman will include radiotelephone (R/T)
communications. You should understand that
uncovered (nonsecure) radio transmissions are the least
secure means of communications, and that R/T voice
communications are the least secure of all radio
communications. Despite these drawbacks, R/T
communications play an important part in our day-to-
day fleet operations and in the control of coastal and
harbor shipping.
CIRCUIT PROCEDURES
R/T is the easiest, most convenient method of
relaying real-world situation traffic from ship to ship,
ship to shore, or shore to ship. All that is necessary is
that you pick up a transmitter handset and speak into it.
A radiotelephone circuit would quickly become
unusable if everyone on the circuit failed to follow the
same rules and procedures. Much of what is
accomplished over an R/T circuit involves proper
techniques and training, coupled with common sense
and experience. It is impossible to cover every
conceivable situation that may arise when using voice
communications. There are many simple R/T
procedures that apply to these circuits.
CIRCUIT DISCIPLINE
Unless using secure voice communications
equipment, you must assume that everything you say
when using R/T is being intercepted. The inherent
dangers of interception can be significantly reduced by
adhering to the principles of strict circuit discipline.
R/T transmissions should be as short and concise as
possible without sacrificing clarity. It is important that
all personnel using voice communications be instructed
in the proper use of the handset and R/T equipment.
They must also be cautioned on the likelihood of
transmission intercept.
Adherence to prescribed operating procedures
is mandatory! Deviations from these procedures create
confusion, reduce reliability and speed, and tend to
nullify security precautions. Once you know the proper
operating procedures, you can use your initiative and
common sense to satisfy specific operating
requirements.
Although circuit discipline is discussed here with
respect to its connection with R/T procedures, you must
understand that the requirement for circuit discipline
applies to all communications circuits—not just R/T
circuits. Every operator must recognize and avoid the
following malpractice, which could endanger
communications security:
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