Voice & Digital Comms
HF, VHF and UHF voice and digital radio, including Winlink email over radio, when the internet is unavailable.
Volunteers supporting the U.S. Navy
When the network goes dark, NARS stays on the air.
The Naval Auxiliary Radio Service is a ready force of volunteer communication experts who provide HF, VHF and UHF voice and digital radio support to the U.S. Navy when satellites, internet and cell service are denied or degraded.
NARS provides operational radio communications support and technical training to the United States Navy. Our volunteers continue a tradition that began in World War I, when the Navy recruited 1,500 amateur radio operators within 10 days of entering the war.
Support Navy Exercises
Backup communications for exercises such as East Coast HURREX and West Coast Citadel Rumble.
Real-World Events
Ready to pass critical traffic during hurricanes, earthquakes and other disasters.
Coordinate & Train
Coordinating with participating stations and providing radio training to Navy EOC staff.
Why HF radio still matters
Satellite communications are fast, but they can be jammed, and natural disasters can knock out internet and cell service in an instant. High Frequency (HF) radio needs no infrastructure between stations. NARS volunteers use proven, low-cost technology like Winlink radio email and portable Go Boxes to keep Navy facilities, ships and agencies such as FEMA connected when it matters most.
Latest NARS News
NARS News: Q4 2026 (October)
NARS has a new name (Naval Auxiliary Radio Service) and a new logo. NARS members briefed U.S. Fleet Forces Command and CNIC on NARS capabilities after a strong HURREX 2026, and planning is underway for HURREX/CITADEL …
Read this editionRecent Event
NARS Micro Field Day in Pinckney, MI
Dennis and Chris turned the back seat of a pickup truck into an Emergency Operations Center and passed a Winlink message on 20 meters using an MC-750 portable HF antenna, a Flex Radio and Starlink.
See photos & details
Who we’re looking for
- Licensed amateur radio operators (General class or higher recommended for HF)
- HF radio experience and a working knowledge of Winlink or willingness to learn from the NARS Team
- Active-duty Navy, retired military, DoD civilians and civilian hams who want to support the Navy
- No daily or monthly commitments. Serve when you're needed.