METHODS OF SIGNALING

9. Numeral group: One or more numerals. Definitions of the following terms agree in meaning with allied signaling instructions: Visual signaling Originator Transmitting station Addressee Procedure Procedure signal Hoist Tackline METHODS OF SIGNALING The methods of signaling that may be used are as follows: Flag signaling Flashing light signaling Sound signaling Voice over a loud hailer Radiotelegraphy Radiotelephone Signaling by hand flags or arms Flag Signaling The international flagbag consist of 40 flags: 26 alphabetical flags, 10 numeral pennants, 3 substitutes, and the ANSWER pennant. Flashing Light and Sound Signaling The Morse symbols representing letters and numerals are signaled as in any other form of Navy communications. In flashing light and sound signaling, it is best to err on the side of making the dots shorter in their proportion to the dashes. The distinction between the elements is then clearer. The standard rate of signaling by flashing light is 40 letters per minute. Voice Over a Loud Hailer Whenever possible, plain language should be used where a language difficulty exists; groups from the International Code of Signals could be transmitted using the phonetic spelling tables. Radiotelegraph and Radiotelephone When radiotelegraph or radiotelephone is used for the transmission of signals, operators should comply with the Radio Regulations of the International Telecommunications Union in force at that time. GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS Unless otherwise indicated, all signals between vessels are made from the master (or commanding officer) of the vessel of origin to the captain of the vessel of destination. Identification of Ships and Aircraft Identity signals for ships and aircraft are allocated on an international basis. The identity signals may therefore indicate the nationality of a ship or aircraft. Use of Identity Signals Identity signals may be used for two 1. To speak to, or call, a station 2. To speak of, or indicate, a station Examples: purposes: YP LABC—I wish to communicate with vessel LABC by . (Complements Table 1, chapter 2, page 108) HY 1 LABC—The vessel LABC with which I have been in collision has resumed her voyage. Names of Vessels and/or Places Names of vessels and/or places are spelled out, as follows: RV GIBRALTAR—You should proceed to Gibraltar. IT2 SS MICHIGAN—SS Michigan is on fire. How to Signal Numbers Numbers are signaled as follows: Flag signaling: By the numeral pennants of the Code. 6-2