New Handling Instructions and ARL Numbered Radiogram Texts
The ARRL NTS2 Committee and Radio Relay International have promulgated new standards for the National Traffic System.
First, the former Radio Relay International “RRC Codes” have been harmonized with ARRL NTS2 requirements. The result is a new list of ARL Numbered Radiogram Texts, which are backward compatible with the older long-standing list, but which add a variety of new coded texts designed to better support EmComm operations, the “I Am Safe” program, and the National Response Plan. Additionally, RRI has agreed to eliminate the “RRC” prefix and revert to the use of the long-standing terminology “ARL” now that the list has been standardized for use throughout the traffic system.
Second, RRI and ARRL representatives met recently to examine the list of handling instructions (HX) and to recommend changes. Some obsolete references have been removed, modifications have been made, and some new HX codes have been added and to better support emergency communications operations. The new list is now in effect for all traffic nets throughout all ARRL NTS and RRI networks.
We wish to thank our friends at RRI who invested considerable time and collegiality to help move these and other projects forward. The teamwork has been very positive, and we expect this to continue in the coming years. [Portions of text courtesy James Wades, WB8SIW]