In an age of instant digital communications, the role of military teletype operator It might seem outdated. However, for decades, this figure - assignment 71 - was essential in transmitting classified information and ensuring the safe and timely passage of orders between the various levels of the military hierarchy.
The military telex operator operated specialized equipment, such as teleprinters, to transmit encrypted messages over dedicated lines. His activity was crucial for coordination between operational units, commands and logistical structures, operating in protected places such as bunkers, advanced command centers, and aboard military ships, always with the utmost discretion.
In the Army, the telex operator ensured communications between ground units, often from command posts or inside bunkers, while in the Air Force, he was essential for transmitting operational orders to pilots and for coordination with air defenses. In the Navy, his role was fundamental for maintaining communications between fleets and higher commands, ensuring operational continuity even at sea.
In 1946, the School of Genius Links, which in 1948 became the School of Transmission Specialists. Teletypewriters, radio editors, radio operators, and other specialists were trained here. In 1976, the school was renamed "Transmission School", evolving in 1998 into "Transmission and Computer School", a reference center for training in communications and cyber-defense.
The Transmission Regiments followed the evolution of the Engineer Corps. The 3rd Regiment, founded in 1883, played a fundamental role in transforming the specialty of the telegraph operators into an autonomous weapon. Over time, the Transmissions have split into two specialties: Telematics e Electronic War.
Networks governative and ccommercials
Satellite communications for many countries, such as the United States and its allies, rely on secure government networks, such as the WGS and AEHF systems. However, in emergencies, some militaries have relied on more expeditious commercial networks such as Starlink, the satellite system of SpaceX. In Ukraine, for example, Starlink It has been used since 2022 to ensure tactical communications, while the US and NATO are testing it as a mobile support and backup to traditional infrastructures.
Addiction to Starlink, as we learn, involves some risks. Elon Musk has demonstrated that he can limit the military use of Starlink, as in the Ukrainian case, influencing strategic operations. Furthermore, being a commercial network, Starlink is vulnerable to cyber attacks, although it is protected by strong security measures. Geopolitical interference is an additional risk, as a private company could influence the political decisions of a nation. To reduce dependence on SpaceX, countries like China and Russia are developing their own satellite networks.
Recent developments have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest related to Elon Musk's involvement in satellite communications. According to a article, Musk’s use of Starlink satellites could represent one of the most significant conflicts of interest in history, given the strategic importance of satellite communications to both civilian and military spheres. In addition, US President Donald Trump has expressed reservations about sharing sensitive plans with Musk, citing his business interests as a potential source of conflict of interest. These developments have drawn scrutiny from experts and officials, leading to discussions about Musk’s role as a senior adviser to the president and the implications for national security.
Starlink is useful for field communications, but militaries still prefer secure, government-backed networks for critical operations, due to the risks of reliance on a private actor and geopolitical uncertainties. While many nations use primarily government-backed systems such as WGS and AEHF, Starlink It can be used in emergency situations or for specific needs.
Sources: Startmagazine, Fanpage, Globalist
Photo: Aeronautica Militare
