Join NARS
Put your radio skills to work supporting the U.S. Navy. No daily or monthly commitments.
Now Recruiting
NARS members include active-duty Navy, Department of War civilians and amateur radio operators who want to support the Navy. Retired members are people who want to keep serving and supporting the United States Navy.
We’re looking for qualified amateur radio operators who are willing to support the Navy when needed. There are no daily or monthly commitments in NARS.
Key Qualifications
- An amateur radio license
- HF radio experience
- A good working knowledge of Winlink or willing to learn from the NARS Team
The application also asks whether you have:
- Access to an HF SSB transceiver capable of operating on all frequencies between 2 and 30 MHz
- A station that can transmit and receive using an approved data waveform (such as MIL-STD 188-110 Serial PSK, Winlink or MT63)
- A computer with internet access
Applicants must be U.S. citizens.
How to Apply
- Download the NARS application (PDF).
- Fill it in. You can print it and fill it in by hand, or type into it on your computer. A typed signature is accepted if you send the application from the email address listed on it.
- Email the completed application to [email protected].
Have questions first? Contact the NARS team. We’re happy to help.
Your Authorization to Operate (ATO)
Once your application is accepted, you’ll receive a NARS Authorization to Operate (ATO) certificate. It’s your official authorization to operate as a NARS Operator, supporting Navy communications in exercises and real-world events when the U.S. Navy calls.
Your ATO shows your call sign and name and is signed by the NARS Chief Operator. It stays valid for as long as your FCC amateur radio license. It’s one to hang proudly in your shack.
Weekly National Net
You’re welcome to join the NARS team’s weekly national net, which combines a virtual Zoom meeting with HF communication. Membership in NARS is not required.
- When: Tuesday nights at 2000 (8:00 p.m.) Eastern
- How: Request the Zoom link and we’ll send it to you
Winlink Tuesday
Members send a Winlink check-in message every Tuesday to stay in practice. The check-in is one line with your call sign, first name, town or location, nearest naval activity and method of transmission. Try HF Winlink first, then VHF/UHF, then Telnet Winlink if neither is available.
What to Expect
Participation in NARS is voluntary. Members use their own radio equipment, complete required training and take part in ongoing training and exercises. NARS members handle unclassified but sensitive information, so the nature of Navy activities calls for a high degree of personal discretion and professional conduct.