Which radio frequency bands are primarily used for naval communication?

The choice of VHF (Very High Frequency) and UHF (Ultra High Frequency) bands for naval communication is primarily driven by their advantageous propagation characteristics, particularly for line-of-sight communications. VHF frequencies, which range from 30 MHz to 300 MHz, are effective for surface and near-surface communication at sea, as they have a good balance of range and clarity, especially in coastal areas.

UHF frequencies, ranging from 300 MHz to 3 GHz, are used for more precise communication needs, such as tactical operations, and allow for higher bandwidth, which can accommodate modern data and voice communication systems. They are also less susceptible to long-range atmospheric interference than lower frequency bands, making them suitable for reliable, secure naval communications.

While other bands such as LF (Low Frequency), HF (High Frequency), and SHF (Super High Frequency) do have their roles in naval operations, they do not match the effectiveness and preferred application of VHF and UHF in most naval communication scenarios. For instance, LF and HF bands are typically used for long-range communication and can be limited by noise and fading, while SHF and EHF are primarily utilized for satellite communications and tactical data links rather than general naval communications.

Thus