Radio Operator (RO)

The Radio Operator (RO) is a specialized billet within MSOT 8213 – Task Force Raven. Every MSOT element includes an RO to ensure reliable communications with the team, higher command, supporting assets, and adjacent units.

Using the ACRE2 mod, ROs manage long-range and short-range radios, handle complex communications, and support fires and close air support (CAS) requests.

Responsibilities

Serve as the primary communicator for the element.
Maintain reliable comms with team, higher, and supporting assets.
Establish and maintain COMPLAN (communications plan).
Relay reports (SALUTE, SITREP, 9-Line, CAS requests).
Support leadership with fires coordination and air-ground integration.
Train team members on basic radio procedures to ensure redundancy.

Training Required

Successful completion of ITC
Completion of the RO Training Course
Proficiency with ACRE2 radios and unit-specific COMPLAN procedures
Familiarity with call-for-fire and CAS request formats

Skills & Capabilities

Operation of ACRE2 short- and long-range radios (PRC-152, PRC-117, PRC-343 if issued).
Ability to configure radios: frequencies, channels, power levels, encryption.
Understanding of retransmission and field expedient antenna setup.
Knowledge of brevity codes, authentication, and encryption procedures.
Ability to construct and brief a COMPLAN.
Competence in delivering reports:
- SALUTE report (enemy contact)
- SITREP (situation report)
- 9-Line MEDEVAC
- 9-Line CAS (close air support request)

Equipment

ROs draw from the unit-approved arsenal and are additionally equipped with:

PRC-152 handheld radio (short range)
PRC-117 manpack radio (long range)
Field antennas and cable as required by scenario
Standard CSO kit (ammunition, grenades, medical gear)
Mission-specific equipment (map tools, notepad, extra batteries)

Training Course

The Radio Operator Training Course is a specialized program designed to prepare CSOs for the RO billet. It is normally conducted over one session (2–3 hours) and includes both classroom instruction and practical field application.

Course Modules

Module 1 – ACRE2 Basics
- Radio interface overview (PRC-152, PRC-117, PRC-343)
- Power settings, channels, and encryption

Module 2 – Communications Planning
- Constructing a COMPLAN
- Frequency management & handoff
- Retransmission setup

Module 3 – Reporting Formats
- SALUTE report
- SITREP
- 9-Line MEDEVAC
- 9-Line CAS

Module 4 – Practical Exercises
- Establishing short- and long-range comms
- Relaying reports under time pressure
- Coordinating fires or CAS in support of the MSOT

Graduation Criteria

Demonstrates ability to configure and operate ACRE2 radios
Accurately delivers reports using correct formats
Maintains reliable comms during simulated mission scenarios

Advancement

After demonstrating proficiency as an RO, operators may be evaluated for:

JTAC qualification (advanced CAS coordination)
Senior comms advisor roles within the MSOT
Instructor duties for future RO trainees

Summary

The Radio Operator is the voice of the MSOT on the battlefield. Without reliable communications, the team cannot coordinate, call for support, or accomplish its mission. The RO ensures that Task Force Raven maintains the lifeline that connects operators to each other and to the greater fight.