A method of radio transmission where the frequency of the carrier wave is varied to encode voice or data, rather than the amplitude (as in AM). In aviation, FM is primarily used in military operations, especially for short-range, secure, or tactical communications, such as air-to-ground links with forward air controllers (FACs), ground units, or helicopters.
Key characteristics:
- Clarity: FM is less affected by static and atmospheric noise than AM, providing cleaner voice communication.
- Range: FM typically has shorter range compared to AM, as it is still limited by line-of-sight and is less effective at long distances.
- Use cases: FM is common in tactical radios, close-support aircraft, and rotary-wing operations, where clear communication with ground forces is critical.
While AM remains the standard for civil aviation and ATC, FM plays a vital role in military coordination.
Application in DCS World
- Many DCS aircraft, particularly attack aircraft (A-10C, Ka-50, Mi-8, Mi-24, AH-64) and some jets, feature FM radios used for communication with ground forces and JTACs.
- DCS does not fully simulate FM signal propagation differences (e.g., reduced static, terrain masking nuances). FM radios are modeled functionally but without the fine detail of real-world performance.
Cadets should practice switching between AM (for ATC/air-to-air) and FM (for JTAC/ground comms) as part of realistic mission comms discipline, mirroring how real pilots manage multiple radios.