Establishing and maintaining communications can be challenging in any environment. What works in one region of the globe may be wholly unreliable in other locations. While each biome offers its own unique set of obstacles to overcome, the polar regions are perhaps one of the most difficult to operate in, especially for communications professionals.

For those who have not ventured to the extreme ends of our planet, the Arctic and Antarctic regions present intense conditions that require individual grit and preparation if one is to complete their mission. Some of the common obstacles include low temperatures, unique and sometimes dangerous wildlife, hazardous terrain, isolation, and atmospheric conditions that can wreak havoc on communications gear.

Communications for Unique Situations

I have worked with rescue and military units around the world, and I am always looking for simplified radio communications. Our company has several types of radio, from Motorola and EJ Johnson to BaoFeng’s, and more. But as of late, I have found a great 10-watt with an integrated GPS and a repeater radio: the Abbree AR-889g radio.

Almost all military, public safety, and search & rescue professionals have had difficulty with communications gear. Common challenges can arise from relying on a single piece of equipment that unexpectantly fails or a lack of trained personnel to utilize available alternative equipment.

The addition of new communications equipment can drastically improve the capabilities of a unit or organization. Effective military and public service communications demand rapidly deployable solutions that are both durable and reliable. Good teams need the best equipment to accomplish the mission.

Acquiring new communications equipment, even tactical communication equipment, is typically not the tricky part of the improvement process. The real challenge comes with the integration of new gear once it is purchased.

Military exercises are an excellent means to test tactics and provide training opportunities for troops. You are probably already training your tactics, weapons, and strategy. However, you will miss your goals if there is weak battlefield communication with your allies. Here are five reasons why you should test coalition communications.