In this course, we move beyond “which button does what.” Ascension is the next step: learning how to effectively employ radios and communications systems to accomplish a mission . Expect short lectures to build the concepts, followed by extensive time in the field practicing planning, deployment, and fallbacks until those techniques become second nature. This class emphasizes decision-making and practical tradeoffs — not just how to program a radio, but when to use which tool and why . NOTE: Day 0: Radio or equivalent knowledge/experience is a prerequisite for this course. Topics: COMSEC (Communications Security) — practical hygiene & OPSEC for radios Comms planning and net control basics Radio programming (practical templates & quick setup) Repeater usage and temporary field repeaters Vehicle & mobile radio operations (power, mounting, interfacing) ManPack deployment, antennas, and terrain mitigation Fallback communications (low/slow comms, visual signals, messengers) SIGINT basics: signal intercept awareness and direction-finding fundamentals Field exercises that tie the above together Gear list: An open mind Note-taking tools Long pants and sleeves (for going in the woods) Solid LandNav Skills (A Handheld GPS is highly suggested) Dual-band handheld “Ham” radio (Note: Loaners available, contact mike@bulletn.net ) Water + electrolytes Lunch Weather-appropriate clothing (raingear, cold weather, etc.) Class Locations Visit our Class Locations page for range fees and geographic information.