General Quarters - Communication Challenges During General Quarters

Communication Challenges During General Quarters

Voice communication being the first choice in transmitting orders, the noise and confusion of battle or an emergency situation may restrict its use and effectiveness. Modern-day ships have radio, electronic, light systems, telephone and computer-based technology that greatly enhance communication, but there is also the possibility that any or all of them could be damaged, disabled, out of commission, unavailable or blocked due to the exact battle condition or emergency at hand. Likewise, noise, enemy jamming, enemy interference, electronic pulses emitted by certain types of munitions, and other liabilities hamper communication. Darkness, heavy smoke, fire and lack of line-of-sight prevent it, but in situations of clear or adequate visibility, and when crewmembers can see each other, hand signals are effective, and flashlights are options, too. Whistles and Morse code (tapping) are other audible options, and can be used in innovative and imaginative ways.

Coordination with other friendly ships in the immediate vicinity, friendly aircraft in the immediate vicinity, with higher command, and with shore-based units must be done, especially in the event of enemy attack or a devastating storm at sea. When operationally prudent, the ship's location at the start of GQ should be transmitted to higher headquarters, other friendly ships and aircraft, in the event that communication or visual contact is lost. Usually, if one ship in close proximity to other friendly ships goes to GQ, all of the others will do the same, for the same threat may exist for them all.