Question 1

Why are there two licenses?

Accepted Answer

The CFARS Radio License contains the frequencies authorized for Canada Wide use. These can be CFARS to CFARS or CFARS to CAF or any other Canadian entity authorized to use these frequencies.The CFARS/US Exercise Radio License contains the frequencies that we can use to communicate with US entities. These include the Cross Border frequencies listed in the Matrix as well as the frequencies authorized for use during international exercises such as QRPX. The only frequencies we can use to communicate with MARS stations on a daily basis are the Mxxx series of designations as well as Kilo, Xray and Yankee.

Question 2

Can I use the Cross Border Frequencies for CFARS to CFARS use?

Accepted Answer

No. These frequencies are only authorized for CFARS to MARS station use. Assignments Kilo, Xray and Yankee may be used both for CFARS to CFARS as well CFARS to MARS communications. During officially sanctioned exercises, some of these frequencies may be used for CFARS to CFARS use during the exercise period subject to the Exercise OPORD.

Question 3

Why did we change the usage for the data frequencies?

Accepted Answer

As more and more CFARS stations are able to utilize two or more different digital modes, it seemed prudent to have a common set of frequencies for all data modes. As Kilo, Xray and Yankee are available for MARS use, they provide access to MARS stations using 110 data as well.

Question 4

Can I use the Cross Border frequencies for voice and data?

Accepted Answer

Although you can use voice on any of the Cross Border frequencies, MARS stations are only authorized to use the “ALE NORTH” set of frequencies for data.

Question 5

So what are the ALE NORTH Frequencies?

Accepted Answer

The ALE NORTH frequencies are designations M021, M090, M134, M257, M278, M327, Kilo,  Xray and Yankee.

Question 6

Why are only certain provinces authorized for Assignment Romeo?

Accepted Answer

Assignment Romeo is a temporary assignment from the CAF to facilitate communication with CAF units. At present BC, AB, MB, ON and NWT are the only provinces that have come up in a search for authorization. This could possibly due to other regional operational frequency assignments being in close proximity to Romeo. Our ISED frequency co-ordinator is continuing his search in this matter and will update as necessary.

CFARS Frequency Matrix