UNIFIL Communications The Signals Branch at HQ UNIFIL was headed by the Chief Signal Officer (CSO) who was responsible for developing the Force signal plan and co-ordinating the implementation of force- wide communications between HQ UNIFIL, the deployed contingents and units, as well as HQ facilities. The CSO worked closely with contingent and unit signal officers and held regular Signal conferences to co-ordinate all aspects of communications. A basic Signal Operating Instruction (SOl) was prepared in late Apr 78 to detail all aspects of Force communications. This SOl was subsequently updated with a series of Standing Signal Instructions (SSls). Although initially established for a staff of four the Signal Branch consisted of the CSO and his "jack of all trades" and expert Chief Comm Op, MWO George Burtoft, throughout the first mandate. The principal tasks of the Signals Branch included: - responsibility to the Force Commander (FC) for the efficient operation of all command and control communications;
- ensuring that proper interface existed between the three levels of communications within UNIFIL, namely -
- Unit-Level Communications. Internal communications (radio, line, Despatch Rider (DR) organized and operated by the contingent and normally using the standard equipment of its national armed forces;
- Force-Level Communications. Provided by CAN- SIGS during the first mandate. The unit operated from HQ UNIFIL with detachments providing rear link installations at each subordinate head- quarters; and
- UN Rear Link Communications. This link is provided and operated by UN civilians of the field operations service. It consists of a worldwide communication network that provides UNIFIL with a teletypewriter link via radio and landline or satellite to UN Head- quarters, New York, as well as other UN mission areas; and
- preparation of SSls on a variety of subjects to standardize contingent's communication procedures;
- preparation of plans and instructions for special operations, such as Red Alert and Force Reserve requirements;
- allocation and control of radio frequency assignments for Force-level and unit communications;
- liaison with Lebanese and Israeli military and civilian staffs on communications matters;
- local procurement action for communications and related equipments urgently required by contingents, units and HQ UNIFIL;
- preparation of budget forecasts; and
- advice to the Chief Administration Officer (CAO) on matters affecting procurement and interface of UN rear link communications.
 | | Aerial view of Camp Pearson with NORAIR Heliport in foreground. |
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