In the context of modern conflict, where electronic warfare has become an integral part of military operations, the question of choosing a reliable means of communication comes to the fore. Radio for BOO It is no longer just a tool for coordination; it is a matter of survival. Conventional civilian models operating in open analog mode are becoming a target for directional and jamming systems, which requires a revision of the approach to equipment.
The situation on the battlefield dictates its own strict rules: if your signal is switched, an artillery strike can arrive in a matter of minutes. That's why. E-protection and stealth data transmission are critical parameters in the purchase or assembly of communication sets. In this article we will analyze the technical nuances that will help you choose a device that can work in conditions of rigid electronic countermeasures.
The choice of equipment is always a compromise between range, encryption quality, weight and cost. There is no universal solution that works perfectly in all conditions, but an understanding of the principles of work. digital protocols The antenna system minimizes the risks. It is important not just to buy an expensive model, but to set it up correctly and use it in conjunction with competent radio communication tactics.
EW principles and vulnerability of analog communication
To understand how to defend yourself, you need to know the enemy in the face. Electronic warfare systems (EW) operate under two main scenarios: passive reconnaissance (direction) and active suppression. Analog communications, still popular among civilian and some volunteer groups, are extremely vulnerable. The signal is transmitted in plain view, and any scanner tuned to the desired frequency will hear the conversations.
Plencing It happens instantly. Modern electronic warfare systems are able to detect the work of even a low-power portable radio at a distance of several kilometers. Once the source of the signal is detected, the coordinates are transmitted to the calculations of artillery or kamikaze drones. In this context, Analog signal without voice encryption is a deadly risk factor.
Active suppression (jamming) works differently. The emitter creates a powerful noise at the operating frequency, "clogging" the useful signal. Analog radios in such conditions simply lose communication, emitting a characteristic noise. Digital systems have the advantage of ignoring short pulse interference and restoring packet data transmission if the noise level does not exceed a critical threshold.
⚠️ The use of open analog channels for the transmission of tactical information, coordinates or call signs in the area of action of the enemy electronic warfare is categorically unacceptable. This is equivalent to giving your coordinates to the enemy.
Digital standards like DMR provide not only better sound quality, but also basic protection. The signal is encoded, and without the corresponding key or color code, it will be impossible to hear conversations on the same frequency. This creates the first, though not absolute, barrier to the enemy.
Digital Standards: DMR and the Benefits of Encryption
The de facto standard for tactical communication available to a wide range of users today is the protocol. DMR (Digital Mobile Radio). Unlike its analogue, here the voice is digitized, compressed and transmitted in packets. This allows you to use the spectrum of frequencies more efficiently and implement elements of crypto protection. For the SWO, this means the possibility of using scrambler And full encryption.
The basic protection in DMR is implemented through the Color Code (similar to the subtone), which sifts out other people’s conversations at the same frequency. This is not encryption, but only filtering. Security starts with voice encryption features such as Basic Encryption or Advanced Encryption (AES). When encryption is enabled, even if the enemy intercepts the digital stream, he will only hear digital noise.
It is important to distinguish between software and hardware encryption. Cheap Chinese radios often have software implementations that can theoretically be hacked with the time and equipment available. More expensive professional models, such as Motorola or Hytera (with caution due to possible backdoors), more robust algorithms are suggested. However, even a simple scrambler is better than its complete absence.
What's a scrambler?
A scrambler is a device or program that stirs an audio signal according to a specific algorithm, making it unreadable to a conventional receiver. The signal is restored on the receiving side. This is not military encryption, but it is enough to protect against accidental wiretapping and rapid directional targeting by simple means.
When choosing a radio, be sure to check for encryption support. In the device menu, this is often hidden in sections. Security or Encryption. If the radio does not support encryption, its use in the "gray" zone is possible only with the use of external voice encryption or code tables, which reduces the reaction speed.
Frequency bands: VHF vs. UHF in forest and urban environments
The choice of frequency range directly affects the communication range and the probability of detection. The main ranges for tactical radios are VHF (136–174 MHz) and UHF (400-480 MHz). Each of them has its own physical properties of propagation of radio waves, which is critical for different theaters of operations.
The VHF range is characterized by a longer wavelength. This ensures better obliqueness of obstacles and greater line of sight in open terrain. If your group is working in steppe or open water, VHF is preferable. However, antennas for this range have large dimensions, which reduces the mobility and visibility of the fighter.
The UHF range, by contrast, penetrates walls and structures better. In urban areas, forest plantations or mountainous areas, UHF radios will show themselves more stable. In addition, the antennas are shorter, which is more convenient for moving in armored vehicles or dense bush. But it is worth remembering: the higher the frequency, the stronger the signal attenuation at a distance.
| Parameter | VHF (136-174 MHz) | UHF (400-480 MHz) | 230 MHz range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penetration | Low (bad through walls) | High (good for the city) | Average. |
| Range (open area) | Tall. | Medium | Very high. |
| Size of antenna | Big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big big | Compact | Medium. |
| Resistance to disturbances | Higher. | Below (more noise sources) | Tall. |
There is also a less common but effective 230 MHz range. It is often used in military and special services. Radios with this range support (e.g., some modifications) Baofeng or specialized models) are less crowded with civilian traffic and have excellent range indicators, but require appropriate antennas.
For maximum stealth, use spaced reception and transmission frequencies (repeater mode) even without the repeater itself, if the radio allows, or change operating frequencies frequently according to a pre-agreed schedule.
Antenna systems and stealth of radiation
Antenna is the most important element of any radio station. Even the most expensive radio with a powerful transmitter will be useless with a bad antenna. In electronic warfare and snipers or drones, the length of the antenna also affects the visibility of the fighter. Standard rubber bands are often ineffective, but long pin antennas can also unmask.
The key parameter is CWC (Standing Wave Coefficient). If the antenna is not tuned to the operating frequency, a significant portion of the transmitter power is returned back to the circuit, heating the radio and reducing the range. The antenna must be adjusted using an analyzer or CSV meter. The ideal CSV should be within 1.0-1.5.
For stealth, there are so-called "antenna wires" or flexible antennas that can be disguised as elements of equipment. Also used antennas with reduced electric length, but they have a lower efficiency. In jamming conditions, it is sometimes more effective to reduce the transmitter power to the minimum necessary for communication, so as not to "glow" at long distances.
⚠️ Warning: Never turn on the transmission without the antenna connected. This is guaranteed to disable the transmitter output cascade (PA transistor) in a fraction of a second.
The use of remote antennas installed at a height (on a tree, mast), allows you to significantly increase the communication range, remaining in shelter. For this purpose, feeders (cables) with low attenuation are used, for example, RG-213 or ECOFLEX-10. The usual thin cable, complete with Chinese walkie-talkie, has a high attenuation on VHF.
☑️ Testing of the antenna system
Radio network tactics and radiation minimization
Technology is only half of the success. The second half is the discipline of the ether. Radio discipline In the CAU, it is strictly regulated. Any word, long conversation or work on radiation without need increases the likelihood of detection of electronic warfare systems of the enemy.
The basic rule is: "On, transferred - off." The time of work for the transfer should be minimal. Use pre-prepared code tables, abbreviations, and phraseology. Avoid transmitting call signs, names, exact coordinates and numbers in plain form. It is better to transfer numbers by letter code or encrypted groups.
Radio networking also plays a role. The use of repeaters (repeaters) reduces the power of wearable walkie-talkie, as they work on reception / transmission from a powerful stationary point. However, the repetitor itself is a powerful source of radiation and a priority target for EW, so its location should be well hidden and its operation cyclical.
There is a concept of "radio silence." At certain periods or if the directional focusers are suspected, communication is terminated completely or switches to passive listening. Using alternative channels, such as wired communication or couriers, at critical moments may be the only safe option.
The best protection against EW is the absence of radiation into the air at a time when it is not required. Shortness and secrecy are more important than distance.
Review of popular models and their adaptation
The market offers a variety of options, from cheap Chinese models to professional equipment. For the conditions of the SVO most often considered models combining reliability, maintainability and the possibility of customization. Brands, like. Baofeng UV-5R, UV-82 are popular because of the low cost, but require refinement and caution in use.
A more advanced option is the DMR standard walkie-talkie, such as Tytera MD-380, AnyTone AT-D868UV or Radioddity GD-77. These devices allow you to flash digital IDs, use encryption and work in the dual-frequency reception mode. They are more difficult to set up, require a computer and special software (CPS), but provide the necessary level of protection.
When choosing, you should pay attention to the security of the case according to the IP standard. A minimum is required for field conditions IP54IP67 is better to withstand dust, dirt and short-term immersion in water. Also important is the capacity of the battery and the ability to work from external power sources.
⚠️ Warning: When buying radios on open marketplaces, be careful. Firmware may contain malicious code or be configured to “track”. Buy from trusted suppliers or re-fish the devices yourself from official sources.
Adapting a radio often involves replacing the antenna with a better one (e.g., Nagoya or Diamond), installation of a headset for secretive communication and programming of the necessary channels and tones. Do not neglect the purchase of programmable cable and mastering basic skills of working with CHIRP or the manufacturer’s native software.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you protect yourself from professional EW systems?
It is almost impossible to fully protect yourself from powerful electronic warfare systems using only a wearable radio. The challenge is not absolute invulnerability, but to raise the threshold of detection and the complexity of the directional focus. Digital encryption, short-term communications sessions, and frequency changes make interception and jamming much harder and more expensive for an adversary.
Which radio is better: Baofeng or Motorola?
Motorola (XPR or APX series) is a professional standard with high reliability, IP68 protection and sophisticated encryption, but it is expensive. Baofeng is a budget option that requires refinement (antenna, SSV setting) and does not have reliable protection against hacking, but is available en masse. The choice depends on the budget and tasks: for the rear and logistics, Baofeng is enough, for the frontline you need Motorola or high-quality DMR (AnyTone / Tytera).
Do I need a license to use radios in the SVO zone?
In conditions of martial law and conducting a special military operation, the requirements for radio frequencies may be changed or simplified for defense needs. However, the use of frequencies occupied by the military or special services is strictly prohibited and can lead to the defeat of its own connectivity or the error of its electronic warfare systems. The frequencies must be coordinated with the higher command or those responsible for communications.
How to extend the radio from one charge?
Use economical mode (if any), reduce the transmitter power to the minimum necessary, turn off constant reception (use VOX or headset with a PTT button), reduce the brightness of the screen backlight. It’s also helpful to have a Powerbank with the appropriate transition for the walkie-talkie.