1. High Intensity Radio Transmission Area
HIRTA
High Intensity Radio Transmission Area
High Intensity Radio Transmission Areas

2. PURPOSE To ensure aircrewmembers understand:
what HIRTA is, how to avoid and recognize.
Responsibilities.
How and what to report suspected HIRTA encounters.
HIRTA Messages
Maps

3. HIRTA HIRTA sites create electromagnetic interference (EMI)
The microwave area of the spectrum can affect aircraft navigation and controls
Modern aircraft (fly by wire, advanced navigation/communication equipment) are susceptible to EMI

4. EXAMPLES OF EMI ANOMALIES
Un-commanded control movements (AFCS inputs)
Unexplained illumination of caution/advisory lights with or without degradation or loss of corresponding system or component
All incidents that cannot be confirmed as material or mechanical failure/malfunctions should be reported as EMI anomalies.

5. RESPONSIBILITIES
Briefing Officers - Ensure mission briefings cover HIRTA/EMI related anomalies and stand-off distances for those missions flown in the vicinity of known HIRTA/EMI sites.
Pilots - Maintain a working knowledge of HIRTA/EMI flight procedures. Report suspected EMI encounters via classified Abbreviated Aircraft Accident Report (AAAR)

6. Reporting
When an anomaly occurs, the following information will be reported via classified routing:
Aircraft type
Location
Altitude
Sequence of events
Outcome

7. HIRTA Messages Updated as necessary, or annually.
Can be downloaded off of secure web sites via STU-III or SIPERNET
Your TACOPS Officer will maintain a current listing of HIRTA sites in the ASET room.

8. TRAINING
All aviators must be briefed annually on HIRTA/EMI awareness, known locations, and reporting procedures.

9. MAPS
HIRTA sites may be marked on maps but must not be labeled as such. (i.e., a symbol to indicate a tower may be placed on the map)

10. SUMMARY HIRTA/EMI can cause serious problems with modern aircraft
Aviators must be familiar with known HIRTA/EMI locations and maintain proper standoff/altitude clearances.
Aviators must understand how to recognize EMI and report incidences.