Interference with radio signals is an on-going problem. The increased use of the radio/microwave part of the spectrum has been contributing to more government efforts to police emissions.
The agency given authority to make rule changes, police use by both commercial interests and amateurs, and assess fines, is the FCC. If drones are involved, the FAA also gets involved.
That's in the USA. Other countries have their own agencies managing operations within their countries.
However, internationally - and many contacts are international - use of the air for radio communication is governed by the International Amateur Radio Union (IARU). It's a voluntary organization, as are the national organizations that contribute to its governance, and approximately 160 nations comprise its membership.
Lately, there has been an increase in radio signals that interfere with many parts of the radio spectrum. Many of the reports lead to suspicion of government activity, particularly in Russia, China, and India. That activity is often related to ongoing tensions in regions. The report is available at the link.
One major field for investigators is the realm of amateur satellites. Most use radio signals in the UHF frequencies. One such satellite from Japan will put the smallest radio transmitter on the moon.
Russia has flexed its muscles in space, testing an anti-satellite weapon in space on one of its own satellites. The problem is that their use of the weapon loaded the LEO (Low Earth Orbit) field with space debris that poses a hazard to other satellites, as well as to the ISS. The international community has put in a formal protest (not that it will likely make a dent in Putin's plans).
Russia, and Ukraine, are continuing their 'radio war', which has led to interference on certain bands. The IARU and other voluntary associations are powerless to affect the problem. The national associations and agencies that might normally step in are not acting.
Related concerns involve the possibility of an EMP (ElectroMagnetic Pulse) - an attack that uses nuclear weapons, not to destroy cities, but to destroy fragile, unshielded electronic parts, and cripple a modern economy. One of Trump's most important directives was to order agencies to 'harden' the USA's electric grids against such an assault. The military has already taken steps to achieve the same goal for their systems (although, when Chinese and other foreign nationals permeate "secure" positions, this may be futile).
Lastly, do you know anyone under 18 who might enjoy a radio license? The ARRL has established a program to subsidize the initial fee of $35 for the license. It's a really good deal, and will put kids in the position of Family Communications Coordinator.
I'm generally in favor of getting the license. Yes, that puts you on a "government list". But the advantages to be gained by having that license:
- On-going communications practice with other hams
- Training opportunities, not just for you, but also the rest of the family
- Advice from more experienced operators - called "Elmers"
- Disaster communications prep and training through ARES, a volunteer organization that coordinates with local government and volunteer organizations in disasters, weather emergencies, and civil disturbance occurrences.
- Links to other hams, many of whom are, if not preppers, prep-aware and generally favorable or at least neutral to those who prep. You also have the opportunity to build friendships with guys with useful skills. Never hurts to expand your network.
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