Active From: 28 June 1920
Role: Command Support
Specialism: Communications
Intelligent, innovative and technically astute, our soldiers are trained to become experts in both engineering and operating a plethora of communications systems, computer networks and cyber equipment.
- Electronic warfare and cyber
- Diagnostics and repair of equipment
- Mechanical and electronic repair
- Sourcing, issue and delivery of equipment
- Fibre optic repair and installation
- Special Forces communicator
- Operate hi-tech communications systems
- Jamming and intercepting communications
Royal Signals soldiers are currently deployed globally providing commanders with information and communication services to enable their decision making and control of their units.
- Op TORAL – Afghanistan
- Op CABRIT – Estonia
- Op SHADER – Iraq
- Op NEWCOMBE - Mali
- Op ELGIN - Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo
- Op TRENTON - South Sudan
- Op TAURUS – Nigeria
- Op TANGHAM - Somalia
- Rest of World – the Royal Signals also has long standing commitments around the world, including Germany, Canada, the Falkland Islands, the USA, Cyprus, the Middle East, Kenya, Brunei, and Nepal.
The Royal Signals is a family - we selected the best Officers and soldiers to fit this family, encouraging them to use their talent, enthusiasm and experience in the on-going pursuit of excellence.
Cpl Pettit – I can have a powerful effect on an adversary
LCpl Adams – I have increased my experience in command and leadership
Sig Davetanevalu – I provide vital information to the commander
History of Military Communication
Communications have always been, and are still a vital part of the Army’s fighting power. Only with clear and trusted communications can commanders support, control, and lead their units and soldiers. The evolution of electrical communications in the last 150 years has been one of the most important developments humanity has ever witnessed. As the advantages from ever more complex equipment became apparent, the need for a technical arm of the Army who specialised in communication systems, became apparent. The Royal Corps of Signals was founded in 1920 and since its founding the Corps has been leading the development of communications; delivering them in a variety of operational theatres.
The first use of the electric telegraph in the Crimean War enabled Army commanders to report daily to London.
Field telephones and wireless communications are deployed for the first time in the Boer war.
The Fuller phone containing a form of mechanical encryption is developed to prevent interception of line communication.
The no 10 set used microwave technology to provide the first mobile wireless telephone.
The first deployment of satellite communications in the Falklands War allows taskforce commanders to speak to London in real time.
High capacity data networks in Afghanistan enable fast use of evidence to prosecute insurgents and enhanced situational awareness for commanders.