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Section III. Signal Site Selection/Set Up

Select sites and routes using ground reconnaissance when possible. Use an aerial or map reconnaissance when a ground reconnaissance is not possible.

Site Reconnaissance. As soon as the team knows where it will deploy, it conducts a thorough reconnaissance. For an NC, this usually includes the platoon leader, platoon sergeants, LOS supervisor, security and NBC team. The NC's reconnaissance must be extremely detailed as site selection and layout are critical to network success. NC reconnaissance is considered complete when the platoon leader can fill out the NC diagram showing--

• Antenna and LOS(V3) placements.
  
• RAU locations.
  
• NC switch/NMF locations.
  
• Hasty defensive sites and security plans.

The LOS has first priority of placement, the local RAU second, and the NC switch/NMF last. The platoon leader also determines if the database needs modifying and back briefs his command on his site layout and initial security procedures.

Site Selection. Select the site that best meets the following criteria--

• Site should be level and allow sufficient space for tactical dispersion of communications equipment in addition to subscriber space requirements.
  
• Site must have a clear LOS path for radio systems, must be free of obstacles that prevent transmissions, and away from interference sources such as power lines, generators, or other antennas.
  
• Site should be accessible in all weather conditions.
  
• Site should provide overhead cover and concealment with adequate dispersion of assets, be defendable, have more than one exit, and not attract enemy attention.
  
• Site should have a helicopter landing zone for emergencies or supplies.

Site Planning. Once a site has been chosen, do the following in accordance with the unit SOP--

• Estimate equipment placement, subscriber location, initial observation post, sleeping, dining and latrine areas, dismount points, parking space, and restricted areas.
  
• Draw a site sketch including the above items.
  
• Coordinating for the site with higher headquarters, subscriber units, and other appropriate elements.
  
• Prepare strip map with primary and alternate routes to the site.
  
• Distribute strip maps to appropriate personnel.

Site Set-up. The following are points to consider when setting up a signal site--

• Maintain a tactical configuration and position the operations van in a central location. This allows easy control of the site.
  
• Position the radio vans on the edge of the site in the direction they will be shooting. This allows the antennas to have the most direct shot without crossing anything on the site. Generators and power lines must be kept as far away from the antennas as possible.
  
• Maintain switches in a central location to allow ease of installing cables to multichannel and other radio vans.
  
• Allow easy access to generators.
  
• Back vehicles into designated parking areas to allow for rapid displacement.

Continue with Chapter 5
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