procedures is recognized. Circuit operators will report
the backlog or potential for backlogs (logged-out
equipment, poor reception) to the supervisor, who will
in turn pass the information up the chain of command to
the CWO and will also log the information into the
master station log (MSL).
When relieved, the circuit operator will pass on
information pertaining to the circuit(s), when it is not
covered in the circuit status standard operating
procedures.
A broadcast form provides for the number of
messages received, the classification of the message,
and also provides a record of destruction for classified
message traffic. A check-off sheet (stock number 0196-
LF-301-2350) is available through the supply system
for keeping a record of broadcast numbers received and
transmitted.
COMMAND GUARD LISTS
Each command is responsible for maintaining an
accurate list of all AIGS, CADS, general messages, and
task organization assignments required to fulfill its
mission, and to supply this guard list to a serving
communications center.
The command guard list must be verified with the
communication plan to ensure that it is accurate and any
discrepancies are corrected prior to updating. This is
normally done when a change in tasking, operating
area, or mission occurs.
DAILY CALL SIGNS
FLTCINC communications operating plan will
prescribe the specific form of call sign to be employed
based on the network used and operating conditions.
Call signs are to be used when first establishing a
net, when reporting into a previously established net,
and in the transmission and address components when a
message is required to be relayed to a station that is on a
different net.
Daily call signs, by their very name, direct you to
change the call signs daily, using various issued
publications. Refer to local operating instructions for
instructions on how to verify the type of daily call signs
you are using for specific situations.
MASTER STATION LOG (MSL)
The MSL is the official narrative record maintained
to record significant events (e.g., power failures,
complete system outages, major equipment outages or
impairments such as HAZCON’S and any other event
that may have an impact on operations, time
verification, shift or watch changes, special tests, etc.).
Every communication space must maintain a Master
Station Log.
Entries must be made in chronological order. The
shift or watch supervisor is required to sign the log when
logging “on” and “off” duty and at the end of the
RADAY.
If the MSL is an automated log, it shall be designed
so that it does not allow alternations. For manual logs, a
hard copy of the MSL must be filed at the end of each
RADAY. MSLs must be retained for a minimum of 12
months.
THE COMMUNICATIONS PLAN
The communications plan satisfies the
communications requirements of an operation. It
specifies circuits, channels, and facilities to be used and
stipulates the policies and procedures that are
applicable. The plan is, in effect, an assignment of
communications tasks to be performed by subordinate
commanders or by supporting commands.
The planner first establishes requirements for
communications and then determines the best means for
satisfying them. This process may reveal shortages or
inadequacies in what is available. If inadequacies are
identified, it may become necessary to share circuits or
facilities, as well as to merge or consolidate
requirements. All possibilities should be considered to
support valid operational requirements.
In planning communications, the planner must
evaluate such factors as the performance, capabilities,
and capacities of systems and facilities, as well as the
personnel. These factors are merely guides and
averages. They represent the sum result of experience
in previous similar situations, and are considered only
after any local factors are determined. These factors
change from time to time and must all be available for
final determination of communications requirements.
QUALITY CONTROL
The AN/SSQ-88/A/B system was designed to
provide a means of monitoring and evaluating
performance of any communications system used by
forces afloat. You will utilize this system with RCS
interface as well as various other types of monitoring
systems; for example, oscilloscopes, meggers, and
visual, just to name a few.
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