AR 5-12 — Army Use Of The Electromagnetic Spectrum
AR 5-12 governs Army management and use of the electromagnetic spectrum, including spectrum coordination, approvals, interference, and compliance.
- Publication number: AR 5-12
- Title: ARMY USE OF THE ELECTROMAGNETIC SPECTRUM
- Date: 02/08/2020
- Proponent: CIO
- Status: ACTIVE
View AR 5-12 on armypubs.army.mil
It covers spectrum supportability assessments, frequency assignments, host nation approvals, radio identification, satellite systems, unmanned vehicles, and electronic attack operations. It requires approved spectrum supportability assessments for spectrum-dependent systems and compliance with applicable spectrum laws, regulations, policies, and technical standards.
Applies to: It issues spectrum-related policies and responsibilities for Army commands (ACOMs), agencies, activities, installation and unit commanders, and users at installations worldwide, combat developers (CBTDEVs) and materiel developers (MATDEVs).
Topics covered
- Spectrum supportability risk assessments
- Frequency assignment types
- Host nation frequency approval
- Ship radio station identification
- Electromagnetic interference resolution
- Non-Government frequency bands
- Electronic attack operations
Questions and answers
When must an SSRA be completed for a spectrum-dependent system?
An SSRA must be completed and submitted to the ASMO prior to Milestone A and prior to each phase of the DAS. (paragraph 2-11)
Can COTS spectrum-dependent systems be purchased without an approved SSRA?
Commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) or other non-developmental SD systems must not be purchased, procured, or developed without an approved SSRA, which assesses potential risks associated with gaining required U.S. national and host nation approvals to access the EMS. (paragraph 2-11)
When can the Army use frequencies in non-Government bands?
Frequencies will be assigned by the supporting AFCs only when spectrum requirements cannot be satisfied in Government bands and when operation will not cause interference to non-Government service. (paragraph 5-2)
What happens when a Part 15 device causes interference?
If a device covered under Part 15 causes interference to an authorized civilian or Federal radio service, the non-licensed device must immediately cease operation. (paragraph 5-2)
What is required to operate non-tactical shipboard radio stations on Army watercraft?
SRAs are required for operation of non-tactical shipboard radio stations used on any watercraft owned or operated by the Army. (paragraph 4-5)