Flag semaphore is designed for communication during daylight hours on short distance, equal when receiving with the naked eye and with good visibility 1 - 1.5 miles, when receiving with optical instruments and with good visibility - 2.5 miles. The speed of flag semaphore exchange at maximum ranges reaches 100-110 characters per minute. Communication with a flag semaphore is carried out only by words transmitted by letter.
Each letter of the Russian alphabet has a specific symbol assigned to it, depicted by a certain position of hands with flags. By sequentially depicting letter signs in the order of their order in a word, they are transmitted over a distance. The technique is based on the correct definition (reading) of words and sentences. Transmission and reception in this order of words and sentences constitute the process of communication by flag semaphore. The conventional signs established for the letters of the alphabet are called the semaphore alphabet.
The flags used to communicate by semaphore are made from a pole 45 cm long and 2.0-2.6 cm in diameter; a piece of fabric (staple or flag) measuring 30-35 cm is attached to one end of the pole. The color of the fabric is chosen to be the same for the pair flags. To transmit a semaphore, the color of the flags is chosen depending on the background on which the communication is carried out: light-colored flags (yellow, white) are used on a dark background, dark-colored flags (black, red) are used on a light background.
The Russian semaphore alphabet, compiled in accordance with the Russian alphabet, includes 29 alphabetic characters (front flyleaf) and has features, knowledge of which accelerates and ensures the process of mastering the technique of receiving and transmitting flag semaphore. These include:
- the similarity of the image of the semaphore signs A, G, K, T, U with the image of these letters accepted in the Russian alphabet;
- establishment of the same sign for pairs of letters EiE, IiI, BiB (therefore, in semaphore texts, the letter E is written in the same way as E, the letter Y as I, a soft sign as a hard sign);
- pairwise symmetry in the image of semaphore signs A and U, B and D, V and G, E and C, ZH and Z, K and X, L and M, N and O, P and R, F and S, C and H , Sh and Shch, Yu and Z. In addition, the signs V and G, Zh and Z, L and M, N and O, P and R, C and Ch, Sh and Shch, Yu and Z, which are symmetrical in image, stand side by side in semaphore alphabet;
- semaphore signs E and C, Vi G, Ni O, IiY are depicted with one hand. In this case, the signs B, E, I (Y) and N are depicted with the right hand, and the signs C, G, O - with the left;
- in semaphore signs B and D, V and G, E and S, ZH and 3, L and M, N and O, P and R, C and Ch, Sh and Shch, Yu and Z, which are pairwise symmetrical, the position of the flag the right hand in the first sign corresponds to the position of the flag of the left hand of the adjacent sign.
Service signs of the Russian semaphore alphabet:
— call sign — to establish communication using a flag semaphore. It is given by waving semaphore flags raised above the head; in this case, the position of the hands does not exceed the boundaries established for the letter U;
- answer sign - to confirm receipt of the communication call sign (the communication call has been noticed), as well as to confirm each correctly received word during negotiations. It is given by flapping the semaphore flags facing downwards. When swinging, the arms should not go beyond the limits established for the letter A;
— repetition (error) sign — for a request to repeat an unaccepted word. It is given by raising the semaphore flags above the head twice, corresponding to the position of the hands for the sign b (b). It is used when transmitting text and as a sign of an error, followed by the transmission of the correct (corrected) word;
- wait sign - if necessary, temporarily interrupt the transmission or reception of a semaphore. The signalman interrupting the transmission (reception) describes horizontal circles above his head with semaphore flags raised upward;
- end sign - to show that the semaphore transmission or negotiations are completed. Indicated by alternately raising up and lowering semaphore flags with the left and right hands several times;
— question mark—in cases when the transmitted semaphore text requires an answer. It is indicated by passing twice the sign corresponding to the letter T;
- separating sign - when transmitting a signal consisting of several signal combinations, to separate one signal combination from another. It is indicated by raising the semaphore flags to a position corresponding to the sign b (b), and lowering them to the feet. This service sign is similar to the repetition sign, the only difference is that with the repetition sign, the semaphore flags are raised up twice, with the separating sign - once;
- sign of impossibility of reception - to show the transmitting signalman that reception is impossible (the signs are poorly visible), it is depicted by writing off three circles in the vertical plane with one or two semaphore flags in one hand.
The choice of location for transmission by semaphore flags determines the quality of reception. Therefore, if necessary, the receiving signalman can indicate to the transmitter a place from which the transmission is better visible. Additional service signs are used for this purpose (Fig. 1.7):
- “Move to my (receiving) right side.” The signal is made 4-5 times to the right side at 90° with a semaphore flag extended forward in a horizontal position, i.e. the sign corresponding to the letter B is repeated several times in a row;
The Russian semaphore alphabet that exists today in the fleet was developed in 1895 by Vice Admiral Stepan Osipovich Makarov. The Russian semaphore alphabet is compiled in accordance with the Russian alphabet, includes 29 alphabetic and 3 service signs. She doesn't... ... Wikipedia
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Semaphore alphabet - symbol letters and service signs, depicted by different positions of hands with semaphore flags. It is used to communicate between ships while moving and at rest, as well as with coastal posts... Glossary of military terms
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Books
- Handbook of Foreign Fleets. Basic tactical and technical data, photographs and silhouettes of warships, ships, naval aviation aircraft and helicopters, as well as some samples of missiles, rocket launchers, mines, torpedoes...
- Fundamentals of classical cryptology. Secrets of ciphers and codes, Mikhail Vasilievich Adamenko. This book is devoted to issues related to the history of the appearance and development of ciphers and codes, as well as the basics of cryptography, cryptanalysis and cryptology. Particular attention is paid to the features…
Alexander Sergeevich Suvorov (“Alexander Suvory”)
Book-photo chronicle: “The legendary BPK-SKR “Fierce” DKB of the Navy 1970-1974.”
25. Sevastopol Maritime School DOSAAF. Flag alphabet. 05/24/1971.
Photo illustration from the open Internet. Russian semaphore alphabet.
Sources: Arkhipov S.N. Surveillance and communications on a warship. M ed. MO 1953 112c pic, soft cover, reduced format.
On May 24, 1971, after lunch, during the second pair of classes at the Sevastopol DOSAAF Maritime School, our “Captain” immediately told us that “we have successfully completed the theoretical part of the topic “observation and communication” and now, in practice, we will teach the Russian flag or semaphore alphabet, signal flag code language and at the same time Morse code.
It is very convenient to learn all the signal, semaphore or telegraph alphabets at the same time, “Captain” told us, “because they intersect, echo and complement each other.
“Captain” stood at the blackboard, picked up two small red flags and showed us the first letter of the Russian semaphore alphabet - “A”.
He stood up straight, proudly, raised his head, straightened his shoulders, instantly looked younger, and suddenly, like wings, he spread his arms hanging down with flags to the sides.
Look, “Captain” told us. – I did not spread my arms wide apart, but at an angle of 45°, that is, so that the flags straightened their panels and were clearly visible from afar. From the side you can see that my figure, with arms-wings-flags spread wide, resembles the shape of the letter “A” of the Russian alphabet.
Remember once and for all! – “Captain” told us solemnly. – The appearance of a sailor, the uniform of a sailor, the posture of a sailor, the speech of a sailor and the behavior of a sailor must always be clear, military-style, masculine, proud, courageous, beautiful.
Naval service, - said the “Captain”, - is not “khukhry-mukhry” on the shore, where a sailor can play around a little, show off, relieve the stress of naval service, but clear, responsible and very serious combat work, on which not only depends the life of the sailor himself, but, above all, the life of his comrades, brothers, the life of the ship, the life and well-being of the Motherland and Fatherland, the Soviet people.
“This is not bravado, not agitation and not propaganda,” said “Captain,” “this is the true truth, because according to international law a ship at sea is the territory of a state, the state itself is on the scale of a ship, and the crew of a ship is Soviet people, the bearer of state, multinational and popular sovereignty, that is, independence, independence and the supremacy of democracy.
This is what a Soviet sailor is,” said “Captain.” - That is why a Soviet sailor must always be slim, strong, courageous, worthy, brave and outwardly beautiful. People traditionally see themselves, the people, the state, the country, and the Motherland in sailors.
That is why, - said the “Captain”, - the well-known saying: “A sailor will drink everything away, but will not disgrace the fleet” should be understood as follows: “The sailor will endure everything (that is, overcome it), but will not disgrace the people.” Clear?!
"Exactly!" - we answered in unison, students of the Sevastopol DOSAAF Maritime School, specializing in “helmsman-signalman”...
After that, “Captain”, not in a military manner, but very accurately, clearly and beautifully, turned to the blackboard and wrote with chalk the first letter of the telegraph Morse code - “dot and dash” - the letter “A”.
To the right of where the "Captain" was, there was a large ship's signal searchlight. “The captain” supplied power to it in advance and showed us how the blinds “blink”, transmitting a signal - “A”, that is, a short press on the trigger (a short opening of the blinds), a pause and a long press on the trigger (a longer opening of the blinds).
You don’t need to press the trigger of the signal spotlight quickly or for a long time,” “Captain” told us. – Exactly like this and exactly enough time for you to understand yourself and read your signals, if you yourself were far away now.
Take care of your brother, “Captain” told us, “who is now in a stormy sea, in rain or fog, trying to read your proud, dashing fast signals, and you will complete your task with dignity. Otherwise, you will receive a signal from your colleague “I don’t understand”, “repeat” and you will be forced, because of your pride, to convey an important message again and again, wasting time, and therefore helping the enemy.
We moved and “Captain” perceived our movement as disagreement...
Yes, to assist the enemy,” said the “Captain” with conviction. – In the Navy there is no concept: “It’s just me, just like that.” In the navy, either by your actions and deeds you help and contribute to victory over the enemy-enemy, or you interfere with this victory, withdraw from it, do not properly fulfill your duties, and therefore contribute to the enemy-enemy. There is no other option.
Do you know why this is so? – “Captain” asked us. We were silent...
Yes, because the sailors are alone on the ship! – said the “Captain” simply and heartfeltly. “There is no one else on the ship except the sailors of the crew.” No one in this moment will not come to the rescue, will not do what needs to be done. There are no extra people on the ship. Each person at his combat post performs not only his personal duties, but also participates in a single collective cause. Therefore, it is not the gunner, not the torpedoman, not the rocket man, and not even the commander who wins, but everyone, the entire crew, even the cook and cook.
But you can die or be defeated because of one careless, dishonest, cowardly person,” said the “Captain” sadly. – If he transmits an important message, command or coordinates incorrectly or at the wrong time, that’s all – a small mistake generated by selfishness, laziness, pride, self-praise or stupidity can lead to a fatal mistake.
In civilian life, on the shore, you can relax a little and allow yourself the behavior of a free, lax young man, - said the “Captain” peacefully. - Youth and youth are allowed a lot... but when you take on the responsibilities of a professional or military man, be collected, worthy of your level and status. Then even the most homely and inconspicuous of you will be attractive and beautiful, commanding respect and trust.
Do you know the “Boatswain” from Apollonovka? – the “Captain” asked unexpectedly.
We nodded our heads together and said that we knew.
Well, there you go,” “Captain” was satisfied. - Here is an example of a true sailor and handsome man, with behavior appropriate to a real sailor. Take his example. True, except for one drawback - he is very foul-mouthed...
We laughed together. A flurry of jokes, famous “boatswain’s” expressions, opinions swept through the audience...
So,” “Captain” reminded everyone of the topic of the lesson, “What the letter “A” of the Russian semaphore alphabet looks like. Suvorov! To the blackboard!
I walked out on my legs stiff from excitement. I tried to stand up clearly, like a military man, and turn around in the “Captain’s” place, but I succeeded in such a way that the guys laughed briefly.
Then I took the flags in my hands, stood up, straightened my head proudly and with a sharp wave so that the flags beautifully flew with their wings to the sides, I spread my arms and froze in the position of the letter “A”.
Great! - said the “Captain”. – Now the letter “A” is on the signal spotlight.
Before this, we all, of course, dabbled and pressed all the buttons and levers of all the devices in the audience, including the signal spotlight. The only thing is, we didn’t know where the spotlight turned on, but the blinds “blinked” often from our games...
With the usual gesture and movement of my fingers, I “blinked” the blinds “dot” and after a short pause “dash”.
Well done again! - said the “Captain”. – Have you already practiced signaling?
I didn’t tempt fate and answer in a military manner, “No way!”, but simply answered “No.”
“Okay,” said the “Captain.” “You might make a good signalman.” Sit down.
Now everyone wanted to be “good signalmen” and “Captain” gave every single one the opportunity to wave their flags beautifully and with dignity, show the signal-sign-figure-letter “A” and “blink” this signal-letter with a signal spotlight.
In the same way, we began to study all the letters and signs of the semaphore and telegraph alphabet...
The last hour of class on May 24, 1971 flew by almost unnoticed. By the end of the lessons, we already knew many figures and signs.
Leaving the building of the Sevastopol DOSAAF Maritime School, we still continued to wave our hands in front of each other with imaginary flags.
I noticed that we were leaving the building and going down the steps to the street no longer like last time - a noisy hooligan crowd, but smoothly, harmoniously, measuredly, without rushing...
From that day on, I began to look in store windows, and at home, in a workers’ dormitory on Dzerzhinsky, 53, I looked at myself for a long time and carefully in the wardrobe mirror.
Now I began to develop my own gait and manner of holding myself, the manner of moving, speaking, looking, turning, turning around, sitting and even lying on the bed.
Now I began to “design” my own man’s appearance and male behavior
I began to create my own “real sailor” behavior...
Flag semaphore (semaphore alphabet) - is one of the methods of communication, where each letter and conventional sign corresponds to a certain position of hands with flags.
A flag semaphore is used for transmission over a distance equal to 1-1.5 miles when received with the naked eye and in good visibility, and 2.5 miles when received with optical instruments and in good visibility.
A semaphore message consists of words made up of letters, represented by the corresponding position of the flags.
The semaphore alphabet does not contain numbers or punctuation marks. Their transmission is carried out in letters, in words. For example, the number "7" will be conveyed by the word "seven", and the sign "," - by the word "comma".
The flags used to communicate by semaphore are made from a shaft 45 cm long and 2.0-2.6 cm in diameter; at one end of the shaft a piece of fabric (staple or flag) 30-35 cm in size is attached.
The color of the fabric is chosen to be the same for a pair of flags. The color of the fabric of the flags depends on the time of day: in the dark, flags with light-colored fabric (yellow, white) are used, and in the daytime, flags with dark-colored fabric (red, black) are used. If there are no flags, they semaphore with caps.
The speed of text transmission by a signalman trained in the semaphore alphabet is 60-80 characters per minute.
From December 1, 2011, “flag signal production” is excluded from curriculum junior communications specialists.
Russian semaphore alphabet
The Russian semaphore alphabet, compiled in accordance with the Russian alphabet, includes 29 alphabetic characters and has features, knowledge of which accelerates and ensures the process of mastering the technique of receiving and transmitting flag semaphore. These include:- the similarity of the image of semaphore signs A, G, K, T, U with the image of these letters accepted in the Russian alphabet
- establishment of the same sign for pairs of letters EiE, IiI, biB (therefore, in semaphore texts, the letter E is written in the same way as E, the letter Y as I, a soft sign as a hard sign)
- pairwise symmetry in the image of semaphore signs A and U, B and D, V and G, E and C, ZH and Z, K and X, L and M, N and O, P and R, F and S, C and Ch, Sh and Shch, Yu and Z. In addition, the signs V and G, Zh and Z, L and M, N and O, P and R, C and Ch, Sh and Shch, Yu and Z, which are symmetrical in image, stand side by side in the semaphore ABC
- semaphore signs E and C, Vi G, Ni O, IiY are depicted with one hand. In this case, the signs B, E, I (Y) and N are depicted with the right hand, and the signs C, G, O - with the left
- in semaphore signs B and D, V and G, E and S, ZH and 3, L and M, N and O, P and R, C and Ch, Sh and Shch, Yu and Z, which are pairwise symmetrical, the position of the flag on the right hands in the first sign corresponds to the position of the flag of the left hand of the adjacent sign.
- call sign (in Fig. 1) - to establish communication using a flag semaphore. It is given by waving semaphore flags raised above the head; in this case, the position of the hands does not exceed the boundaries established for the letter U;
- answer sign (in Fig. 2) - to confirm receipt of the call sign (the call has been noticed), as well as to confirm each correctly received word during negotiations. It is given by flapping the semaphore flags facing downwards. When swinging, the arms should not go beyond the limits established for the letter A;
- repetition (error) sign (in Fig. 3) - for a request to repeat an rejected word. It is given by raising the semaphore flags above the head twice, corresponding to the position of the hands for the sign b (b). Used when transmitting text and as a sign of an error, followed by transmission of the correct (corrected) word
- wait sign (in Fig. 4) - if necessary, temporarily interrupt the transmission or reception of a semaphore. The signalman interrupting the transmission (reception) describes horizontal circles above his head with semaphore flags raised upward
- end sign (in Fig. 5) - to show that the semaphore transmission or negotiations are completed. Indicated by alternately raising up and lowering semaphore flags with the left and right hands several times
- question mark (in Fig. 6) - in cases when the transmitted semaphore text requires an answer. Indicated by passing twice the sign corresponding to the letter T
- separating sign (in Fig. 7) - when transmitting a signal consisting of several signal combinations, to separate one signal combination from another. It is indicated by raising the semaphore flags to a position corresponding to the sign b (b), and lowering them to the feet. This service sign is similar to the repetition sign, the only difference is that with the repetition sign, the semaphore flags are raised up twice, with the separating sign - once
- sign of impossibility of reception (in Fig. 8) - to show the transmitting signalman that reception is impossible (the signs are poorly visible), it is depicted by writing off three circles in the vertical plane with one or two semaphore flags in one hand.
The choice of location for transmission by semaphore flags determines the quality of reception. Therefore, if necessary, the receiving signalman can indicate to the transmitter a place from which the transmission is better visible. Additional service signs are used for this purpose:
- “Move to the right side of me (the recipient)” (in Fig. a). The signal is made 4-5 times to the right side at 90° with a semaphore flag extended forward to a horizontal position, i.e. the sign corresponding to the letter B is repeated several times in a row
- “Move to the left of me (the recipient)” (in Fig. b). The signal is made 4-5 times to the left at 90° with a semaphore flag extended forward in a horizontal position, i.e. the sign corresponding to the letter G is repeated several times
- “Rise higher” (in Fig. c). It is done by giving the signal upward with a semaphore flag extended forward to a horizontal position
- “Go down below” (in Fig. d).. This is done with a downward signal with a semaphore flag extended forward to a horizontal position.
Learning the semaphore alphabet
Learning the semaphore alphabet begins with the simplest and most easily learned letter signs. This group of signs includes A, G, K, T, U, E, E, I, J, b, b. Let's call it the first conditional group. The remaining alphabet signs, taking into account the degree of their complexity, will form the second and third conditional groups. The second group includes the signs V, S, ZH, Z, L, M, N, O, P, R, and the third group includes B, D, F, S, X, C, H, Sh, Shch, Yu, Z .The division of signs into three conditional groups is justified by teaching practice, since it contributes to faster and better memorization. But this method of learning the alphabet is not the only one. Sometimes a different approach to the order of studying signs is used. In particular, in the order of their arrangement in the alphabet or based on symmetry. But in both cases, the alphabet is also divided into three conditional groups with the number of characters 10-11 in each. As you can see, this is not fundamental difference from the first method. Therefore, learning the alphabet and mastering skills in transmitting signs and receiving them will be considered in relation to the first method.
When learning the alphabet, it is necessary to have semaphore flags, semaphore alphabet posters and tables with acceptable hand angles in letter signs. To more quickly practice the correct position of the arms and body, mirrors should be used, allowing students to see themselves in full height. From the very first lesson, it is necessary to pay attention to the correct position of the student’s arms, legs, torso and head. Even slight bending of the body or head, incorrect stance or bending of the elbows must be corrected immediately.
When learning the signs of the letters A, T, U, b, b of the first conditional group, the student’s hands should occupy the same position relative to the body. For the A sign, both arms should be at a 45° downward angle, and for the T sign, both arms should be extended horizontally. For the U sign, the arms are raised up at an angle of 45°, and to depict the soft (hard) sign they are extended upward above the head. Then the signs that are formed with one hand are studied. These include the signs of the letters G, E, E, I, Y. The sign G is formed by the left outstretched hand horizontally, the right one is lowered down. The letter E sign is depicted with the right hand, which is at an angle of 45° upward. The same sign denotes the letter E. The sign of the letter I corresponds to the outstretched right arm upward, forming a continuation of the body. The other hand is down. The same sign corresponds to the letter Y, but in this case a slight circular movement is made with the arm extended upward.
The letter K sign is learned after all the signs of the first group have been learned. He is one of them, when passing, both hands are on the left side of the body. In this case, the left hand takes a position at an angle of 45 degrees upward, the right - at the same angle downward.
During one lesson you should learn no more than 5-8 signs. In this case, classes should not exceed 2 hours. It is recommended to begin each subsequent lesson by repeating previously learned letter signs. After studying letter signs in each lesson, you should practice a direct transition from transmitting single characters to two or more, as well as writing short words from them.
After studying the signs of the first conditional group, it is recommended to practice transmitting short words made up of these letter signs. For this purpose, it is recommended to use the text compiled in relation to the one given at the end.
When transmitting words, you must ensure that the transition from one sign to another is done without lowering your hands. In this case, the transmitted character of the letter must be clearly recorded, remaining in this position for some time, after which the subsequent character is reproduced. You should lower your hands only after finishing transmitting a single letter or a single word.
After achieving a clear transmission of signs or short words consisting of the studied letters, learning to read begins. The transmission of letter signs and short words is carried out alternately by one of the students. After mastering the signs of the letters of the first group, the study of the signs of the second conditional group begins. It begins with signs that are symmetrical to those previously learned. These include the letters B and C. Then subsequent characters are studied in the order of their location in the group. As they are memorized, combinations of two or three letters are transmitted, and then short words made up of the learned letters.
The signs of the letters of the third conditional group are studied in the same sequence. When conveying words, the main attention should be paid to the clarity of the image and the correct transition from one character to another. When double letters are found in the transmitted word, then after transmitting the first of them, the hands should be lowered. In this case, no pause is made, since the hands must immediately be raised to re-transmit the same letter. The speed of transmission should not come at the expense of the quality of reproduction of characters, but is increased gradually through classes and training. It is recommended to conduct one-hour training in the speed of transmission, as well as the reception of letters, during the entire training period.
As you master the transfer technique, light and simple words should be replaced by more complex ones, including all the learned letter signs. The delivery of words must be alternated with pauses. The duration of pauses should be set such that it would be possible to record received words and transmit confirmation of their receipt. If errors are detected in accepted words, they must be repeated.
As they master the transmission and reception of words, they begin to study service signs. During this training period, attention is paid to increasing the speed of transmission and reception. However, this should be done gradually as one gains confidence in transferring skills. Semaphore texts should be used that contain words containing all the letters of the alphabet. Their transmission and reception must be accompanied by the use of service signs. In this case, the continuity of transmission by one trainee should not exceed 3-5 minutes. During classes or training, the transmission and reception time allotted to each student must be the same. This distribution will help students achieve equal reception and transmission speeds. This is especially important at this stage of training, when the exchange must be carried out over distances of at least 50-100 m. Semaphore texts can be transmitted either by dictation or from forms, and those received must be written down (in journals, notebooks) or memorized. All accepted texts are subject to verification. It can be carried out after each appointment or at the end of the lesson.
Reception of semaphores with memorization is an important type of training, since it develops and trains the memory of students, which will be of great importance in their future career activities.
In a paired exchange, the correctness of the received texts can be checked by reverse transmission, that is, by rehearsing them. But in this case, transmission is made only from the semaphore form on which these texts were recorded.
After students have mastered service signs, they begin to study the rules of communication.
Rules for communication with flag semaphore
In conditions of good visibility and at close distances, the transmission and reception of semaphores can be carried out by one signalman. In this case, the transmission is made from the semaphore form, two or three words in a row, after which a pause is made. It is necessary for the transmitter to read the following words, and for the receiver to record the received words.Over long distances (in poor visibility), the transmission and reception of semaphores is carried out by two signalmen. When transmitting, the first transmits the text under the dictation of the second, who also monitors the signals of the receiving ship (post). He also gives instructions to the first to repeat those words to which there was no sign of an answer. When receiving, the first reads and loudly pronounces the text he has received, the second keeps a record and gives instructions to the first to confirm the clarity of the received text with a response sign (pennant).
Establishing a connection
Communication is established using a call sign. This sign is always given in the direction of the ship (post) with which the transmitter wishes to communicate. The call sign is transmitted from a place (bridge) that is not obscured by the superstructures, rigging or smoke of one’s own (neighboring) ship.As a rule, a call sign is given a response sign with a flag semaphore by the ship (post) to which the call is addressed. If there is no answer to the call within 2 minutes, then simultaneously with the call sign, which continues to be transmitted, the call sign of the ship (post) that is called for communication is raised “to half” (half the visible length of the halyard). The call ends (the flag call sign is removed) when the called ship (post) gives a response signal with a flag semaphore or by raising the response pennant “to the point” (to the full visible length of the halyard). The latter is used as a response sign when communicating over long distances or in poor visibility in order to increase communication reliability.
Communication
Semaphore transmission begins after receiving a response sign from the called ship (post). The latter is obliged, after each word correctly received and understood by him, to give a response sign with a flag semaphore or by raising the response pennant “to the place”. The recipient of the response pennant “to the spot” can hold it until he understands all the accepted words. In case of an incomprehensible (not accepted) word, the receiver is obliged to lower the response pennant “to half” or not respond to this word with a flag semaphore response sign. In this case, the transmitter repeats the last word he transmitted. As soon as it is accepted (clearly), the receiver is obliged to give a response sign with a semaphore flag or raise the response pennant “to the place”.If a word is transmitted incorrectly, the transmitter makes an error (repetition) sign, after which he repeats it again in a corrected form.
The intervals (pauses) between words when transmitting them should enable the receiver not only to write them down, but also to lower (raise) the response pennant.
In this sequence, the entire semaphore text is transmitted from beginning to end. In this case, the subscription number is transmitted by the word “number” or a combination of letters НР, followed by a four-digit group: the first two digits are hours, the second are minutes.
End of connection
Semaphore communication ends with the transmission of the termination character, which consists of the letters AP. If direct communication between two ships is impossible, when their mutual visibility is impaired, transmissions are carried out with the help of other ships located between them at the shortest distance. In such cases, semaphores are preceded by the expression “along the line to ...” indicating the name of the ship to which it is addressed. “Line” transmission means that a semaphore is transmitted one by one from ship to ship, starting from the one closest to the transmitter and up to the one indicated in the semaphore. When a semaphore concerns all ships in service (wake, front, etc.), then after the word “along the line” the addressee is not indicated.The Russian semaphore alphabet that exists today in the fleet was developed in 1895 by Vice Admiral Stepan Osipovich Makarov.
The Russian semaphore alphabet is compiled in accordance with the Russian alphabet, includes 29 alphabetic and 3 service signs. It does not contain numbers or punctuation marks. Their transmission is carried out in letters, in words. For example, the number “7” will be conveyed by the word “seven”, and the sign “,” by the word “comma”.
Each letter and symbol corresponds to a certain position of the hands with flags. A semaphore message consists of words made up of letters, represented by the corresponding position of the flags.
The transmission of information by semaphore is carried out by signalmen using flags, the fabric size of which is 30 × 35 cm. The color of the fabric of the flags depends on the time of day: in the dark, flags with light-colored fabric (yellow, white) are used, and in the daytime - with fabric dark tone (red, black).
If there are no flags, they use semaphore caps.
The average transmission speed of a flag semaphore by a trained signalman is 60-80 characters per minute.
