Table 2-2.—Radiotelephone Prowords, Equivalent Prosigns, and Operating Signals—Continued
USE OF OPERATING SIGNALS
RADIOTELEPHONE SECURITY
Operating signals are not designed for R/T
transmission. In R/T procedures, operating
information is normally conveyed in concise phrases.
However, in two circumstances it is permissible to use
operating signals contained in Communication
Instructions, Operating Signals, ACP 131, instead of
standard R/T phrases. These circumstances are where
there are language difficulties and where practical if
there is no risk of confusion.
In such instances, operating signals must be
preceded by the word “PROSIGN” or “OPERATING
SIGNAL.” Prosigns and operating signals are
transmitted using only authorized phonetic equivalents.
The prosign INT is transmitted in its prosign equivalent;
that is, INTERROGATIVE. The prowords I SPELL
and FIGURES are not used. Examples of prosigns and
operating signals are:
2-8
In addition to adhering to circuit discipline, all users
are responsible for observing proper security
precautions on R/T nets. For example, many units at sea
use classified call signs on tactical nets. If the operator
does not know the operating situation, the classified call
could be linked to the unclassified call sign for that ship.
Such unauthorized disclosures are why
BEADWINDOW procedures have been introduced
into the R/T process.
BEADWINDOW
BEADWINDOW is a real-time procedure used to
alert circuit operators that an unauthorized disclosure
has occurred over a nonsecured circuit.
BEADWINDOW also warns other operators on the net
of the disclosure. This serves as an educational aid. The
long-term benefits of the BEADWINDOW procedure
include an increased awareness of the proper use of
voice circuits throughout the fleet and better security of
uncovered Navy voice communications.
