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Trainees gain real-world experience with innovative HF Radio Training Program

  • Published
  • By Clarence Carpenter
  • HQ Cyberspace Capabilities Center
SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. --  

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. – A groundbreaking partnership between the 338th Training Squadron at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, and volunteers with the Air Force Military Auxiliary Radio System, or AFMARS, program is revolutionizing how Airmen attending Radio Frequency 
Transmission school learn about High Frequency radio communication. 

This low-cost, high-impact initiative connects trainees directly with civilian AFMARS volunteers who provide invaluable real-world experience. 

AFMARS is a volunteer organization dedicated to providing backup radio communications for the Department of Defense. They aim to be a crucial, cost-effective, and high-quality alternative to primary communication systems, ensuring reliable communication capabilities for national security purposes in any situation, whether peacetime, wartime, or crisis.

Previously, HF training relied heavily on simulations and local exercises. Now, students raise antennas at the schoolhouse and conduct live radio checks with AFMARS operators located hundreds of miles away. This hands-on experience is integrated into both the HF training module and the culminating capstone exercise, allowing students to demonstrate practical skills before graduation.

"This enhanced training is a game-changer,” said David Antry, Chief of AFMARS, HQ Cyberspace Capabilities Center. “It bridges the gap between theory and practice, giving Airmen the confidence and competence they need to operate HF radios in real-world scenarios."

Students receive comprehensive training on HF setup, antenna alignment, and operating procedures, culminating in these live exercises with AFMARS.  The renewed focus on HF communication stems from its resilience in contested environments. Unlike satellite communications, which are vulnerable to disruption, HF radio offers a robust and survivable alternative, particularly crucial in scenarios where other systems might be compromised. As space becomes increasingly contested, HF's ability to maintain communications is vital for command and control.

"This program is shaping the future force of skilled communicators," said Antry. "By equipping our warfighters with real-world HF experience, we're ensuring a pipeline of highly skilled communicators ready for the complexities of modern warfare."

This vital training is made possible through a collaborative effort between dedicated AFMARS volunteers and government personnel, leveraging the strengths of both to enhance training effectiveness at no cost to AETC. 

AFMARS operates with its own distinct organizational structure, including Numbered Air Force, wings, and groups structure, separate from the standard Air Force.  Thus, AFMARS 4th Air Force, Communications Wing and the AFMARS 11th Air Force, MARSRADIO Special Operations Squadron has been instrumental in the program's success.  

This innovative partnership is a win-win, providing invaluable training for Airmen and a meaningful way for civilian volunteers to contribute to national security.