text: _________________________________________________________________________________Chapter 2
  prepares the communications plan. After approval by the chief of staff, it be-
  comes an annex to the operational directive for implementation by subordi-
  nate signal units. OPFOR communications reflect the concern of commanders
  to maintain uninterrupted C2, flexibility, and security.
  Signal Assets
  2-209. Communication systems employed include
  • Manportable high-frequency (HF) and very-high-frequency (VHF)
  radios.
  • HF radio stations.
  • VHF and ultra-high-frequency (UHF) multichannel radio relay.
  • Super-high-frequency (SHF) troposcatter systems.
  • Satellite communications (SATCOM).
  • Wire and cable (landline as far forward as possible).
  • Commercial communications networks (including cellular, microwave,
  radio, wire, digital, and satellite)
  • Local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).
  • Internet and Intranet.
  Encrypted communications are common from brigade upward, but may ex-
  tend to the lowest levels in the most modern OPFOR units.
  2-210. At the operational level, headquarters normally task-organize their
  signal assets to support the formation of forward, main, IFC, and sustain-
  ment CPs. The numbers and types of signal units can vary greatly depending
  on the size and makeup of the operational force grouping under a particular
  headquarters.
  2-211. Signal communications are organized through the communications
  groups that are established to provide communications for the CPs. Telephone
  exchanges and cable are used extensively to integrate the control and sup-
  port groups of the CPs with the communications groups. It is possible to ex-
  tend mobile communications through the integration of wire and wireless
  and by connecting with fixed military and civil communications facilities.
  2-212. The OPFOR also stresses the use of non-electronic means of communi-
  cations. While radio must be the principal means of communication in a fluid,
  mobile battle, the OPFOR is aware of the threat from enemy signals intelli-
  gence, direction finding, and communications jamming. Also, wire and cable
  are often not practical in fast-moving situations.
  2-213. During periods of radio silence or disruption of radio communications,
  the OPFOR employs messengers, liaison teams, and visual and sound signals.
  Messengers are the preferred method for delivering combat orders at any
  time. Representatives from the OSC staff may observe and supervise the exe-
  cution of directives. Whenever possible, the OPFOR prefers personal contact
  between commanders (or their representatives) and subordinates.