Tactical Radio Operations

In a fast-moving situation, the team that can communicate wins. This workshop makes sure that team is yours. When the network goes down and the phones go dark, the operator with an inexpensive radio and the right knowledge owns the field. 

When communications fail, missions fail. Whether you're a cybersecurity professional thinking through the full threat landscape, a red team operator needing off-grid coordination, or a radio enthusiast who wants to put their hobby to practical use, understanding tactical radio operations can be the difference between effective action and complete breakdown. Most people assume that meaningful field communications require expensive, specialized equipment and years of training, but the reality is that a $30 handheld radio, used correctly, can be a powerful and reliable tool. This workshop strips away the complexity and gets you to functional competency fast, grounding you in the real-world principles that professionals use when the stakes are high and the timeline is short.

Simple, inexpensive, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) handheld radios fill the gap for fast application during short-notice tactical situations. The Baofeng UV-5R is a good example of the radio type discussed. Discussions will include a foundational handheld radio walk-through, basic operations using voice capabilities, command and control techniques, terrain and weather factors, communications security (COMSEC) best practices, operations security (OPSEC) and intelligence/counterintelligence considerations. This workshop is designed for newcomers and those with some experience using any type of 2-way radio.

The following topics will be covered:

• Familiarisation with common handheld radio functions
• RF characteristics for those in a hurry
• OPSEC and COMSEC basics
• Focus on FM voice (and why digital is avoided)

Know what’s Happening Next — before everyone else does.

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Host or Publisher Hackers Guild PGH