Our Mission
The communications mission of CAP is to organize and maintain a reliable nationwide point-to-point, air-to-ground and mobile capability for use in search and rescue, civil defense, and disaster relief missions; to augment other existing communications services in the event of floods, fire, tornado, and similar natural disasters and support the US Air Force Survival and Recovery Program. Our squadron members are active participants in CAP Mission Communication Support.
About CAP Communications
The nation-wide CAP communication system has 840 high-frequency radio stations, 5,000 fixed-land radio stations and 10,000 mobile radios, deployed in CAP units in every state, the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. In addition, many CAP members also choose to purchase their own NTIA compliant equipment for their use in the CAP communications system and this creates a unique blend of private and organizationally-owned HF and VHF radio equipment.
The Civil Air Patrol operates primarily on frequencies assigned by the United States Air Force. As a result, all CAP radios must comply with NTIA standards for transmitting and receiving. This requirement also applies to all radios used by other agencies that are permitted by MOU to operate on CAP frequencies. Interoperability with other agencies is also stressed.
Using volunteer operators trained to professional standards, the CAP communications network is a ready force for homeland security and the protection of life and property.The system operates in support of all CAP missions, including Emergency Services, Aerospace Education and the CAP Cadet Program.
Advance planning and training is a priority of the communications program. Communication managers at all levels develop mission communication plans and manage resources to ensure sufficient assets are available to accomplish the missions of CAP. Because "emergency communication is our business" CAP communicators are obligated to have standard procedures developed and trained for communication under demanding conditions.
Communications Staff
Communications Officer
Manages and directs communications activities. They shall:
- Develop and implement communications plans, programs, and directives in close coordination and in support of command, operations and emergency services.
- Establish requirements and track acquisition and disposition of communication equipment in coordination with logistics.
- Coordinate communications plans and programs with other staff agencies and with subordinate and higher headquarters.
- Develop detailed operating procedures for communications operations and guidance to subordinate units and personnel.
- Collect and report data to determine the effectiveness of communications operations.
- Coordinate licensing or frequency authorizations for all radio operations.
- Develop communications training programs.
- Coordinate communications conferences, meetings, and workshops.
- Monitor unit communications.
- Establish programs to maintain and operate unit radio equipment.
The communications officer should having a working knowledge of CAPP 214 and CAP directives in the 50, 55, 67, and 100 series and the NTIA manual of regulations and procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management.
ZULU TIME
National Level Homeland Security Live Alert
