text: Chapter 2
  RADIO COMMUNICATIONS
  2-40. For success, a pathfinder requires the essential element of communication by GTA voice radio.
  The pathfinders place this into operation first at a DZ or LZ, and they take it out of operation last.
  2-41. Pathfinders must thoroughly understand radio procedures. This includes the phraseology unique to
  ATC (Chapter 3). They must send clear, concise, applicable, accurate, and correctly-timed
  communications. To achieve speed and clarity of transmission, pathfinders and aviators practice radio
  discipline. They transmit only necessary messages. Also, except in emergencies, they use pathfinder ATC
  frequencies only for ATC (Figure 2-1).
  2-42. Because they exchange a lot of vital information, aircraft crews normally record the important
  parts of GTA messages. This helps them to make sure they understand and can follow instructions.
  2-43. Pathfinders use electronic homing beacons, visual aids, and arm-and-hand signals to complement
  voice communications. Pilots and transported troops must know the purpose and meaning of the aids used
  and the techniques for using them (see STANAG 3570). (FM 21-60 discusses arm-and-hand signals and
  visual aids.)
  2-44. When possible, to keep informed about changing situations that could influence their operations,
  pathfinders monitor supported unit command radio nets.
  2-45. Pathfinders set up positive communications between pathfinder ATC facilities and collocated fire
  support elements. This ensures aircraft receive timely and accurate information about friendly fires.
  2-46. Pathfinder operations require the constant use of radios. This gives the enemy force many chances
  to intercept, analyze, and exploit friendly transmissions. They try to gain intelligence and conduct
  electronic jamming and deception. Defeating enemy jamming or imitative deception methods falls mostly
  to the radio operator. He must know how to recognize and report this deliberate interference. To plan and
  execute a tactical mission, he must know how to—
  y Defend against and beat ECM using electronic counter-countermeasures (ECCM).
  y Secure transmissions.
  y Communicate using other means.
  Figure 2-1. En route communication procedures with pathfinders in a landing zone.