Communications

When commercial communication systems fail or become overloaded, Civil Air Patrol’s (CAP) communications network is ready to maintain command and control (C2) channels, keeping CAP’s aircraft flying and ensuring critical messages are relayed for federal and other partners. CAP’s robust system provides contingency communication capabilities during emergencies and supports a wide range of operational missions.

CAP Communications Infrastructure

CAP operates a highly capable and extensive radio communications network, including:

Over 500 High Frequency Automatic Link Establishment (HF-ALE) base stations.
Nearly 750 non-ALE HF radios and approximately 260 mobile HF units in ground vehicles.
An extensive Very High Frequency (VHF) network with more than 500 analog/digital (P25) repeaters and thousands of VHF portable, mobile, and base stations.
Nearly 150 low-power portable repeaters for temporary ground or air-mobile use.

All equipment operates on federal frequencies assigned to CAP, compliant with National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) standards, ensuring interoperability with military and federal agencies.

Trained Personnel

Over 19,000 CAP members are trained in the use of these radio systems, with nearly 4,500 members holding or working towards advanced communications qualifications. Many of these members are also amateur radio operators, enhancing their skills and readiness to support emergency missions.

National and Local Communication Nets

CAP holds 15 national voice nets weekly on multiple HF frequencies, with close to 120 daily check-ins from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and the District of Columbia. Region and state-level HF nets are also active on various schedules, with some areas conducting local VHF nets. CAP maintains a constant duty station watch on dedicated ALE frequencies, ready to relay both internal and external traffic.

Data Communication and Future Development

CAP is developing a national infrastructure for MilStd 188-110 HF data communications, with modems being installed at all levels of the organization. This capability will further enhance CAP's ability to transmit data over long distances in support of critical missions.

Operational Security and Procedures

CAP adheres to strict operational security protocols, using Air Force-assigned tactical call signs. In inter-agency operations, CAP may also use functional designators following ICS/NIMS standards. CAP's communication procedures are based on meticulous implementation of military ACP-125 procedures, ensuring consistency and readiness during national or international missions.

Training and Exercises

CAP participates in Department of Defense (DoD) communications exercises to prepare for national emergencies. CAP also tests its capabilities through pre-authorized international exercises, ensuring readiness to handle actual emergency taskings.