DA Form 2408-23: Survival Radio Inspection Record (2026)

DA Form 2408-23: Survival Radio Inspection Record (2026) – DA Form 2408-23, titled Survival Radio/Emergency Locator Transmitter Inspection Record, is a U.S. Army form (December 1991 edition) used to document inspections and maintenance of survival radios and emergency locator transmitters (ELTs). These critical aviation life support equipment (ALSE) items ensure aircrew safety during emergencies by enabling position reporting and rescue coordination.

It falls under the Army Maintenance Management System – Aviation (TAMMS-A) and is prescribed by DA PAM 738-751. The form tracks equipment details, battery status, and periodic inspection results to maintain full mission capability (FMC) and compliance with safety standards.

Download the Official DA Form 2408-23 PDF Here: https://armypubs.army.mil/pub/eforms/DR_a/pdf/A2408_23.pdf

Purpose of the Survival Radio/ELT Inspection Record

The primary purpose of DA Form 2408-23 is to provide a permanent, auditable record of:

  • Equipment identification (radio type, serial number, NSN).
  • Battery information (type, serial/lot numbers, manufacture date).
  • Scheduled and unscheduled inspections.
  • Due dates, inspection types, completion dates, inspector initials, and remarks.

This ensures survival radios and ELTs remain reliable for over-water, remote, or combat operations. Proper documentation supports aviation safety programs, readiness reporting, and regulatory compliance in Army aviation units.

Key Components and Fields on DA Form 2408-23

The form is typically two-sided with dedicated sections:

Front Side Identification Blocks:

  • 1. Radio Type — Enter the specific model (e.g., AN/PRC-90, PRC-112).
  • 2. Radio Serial No./Manufacture Date.
  • 3. National Stock Number (NSN).
  • 4. Technical Manual — Reference the applicable TM for procedures.
  • 5-8. Battery Details — Battery type, serial number, lot number, and manufacture date (critical due to shelf life limits, often 3 years).

Inspection Record Table (Both Sides):

  • Due Date (a) — Next scheduled inspection.
  • Type Inspection (b) — E.g., daily, periodic, pre-flight.
  • Date Inspected (c).
  • Initials (d) — Inspector’s PID or initials.
  • Remarks (e) — Results, deficiencies, corrective actions, or “Insp OK”.

Accurate entries follow DA PAM 738-751 guidelines, using proper status symbols and PIDs (Personnel Identifier).

How to Fill Out DA Form 2408-23 (Step-by-Step)?

  1. Complete Identification Blocks at the top with current equipment data.
  2. Record Battery Information meticulously — Battery expiration directly impacts serviceability.
  3. Log Each Inspection in the table: Enter due date, type, actual inspection date, your initials/PID, and detailed remarks.
  4. Use Correct Status Symbols (per DA PAM 738-751) for any deficiencies (e.g., Red “X” for unserviceable).
  5. Reference Technical Manuals for specific inspection criteria (e.g., battery checks, functional tests, visual inspections).
  6. File and Maintain the form as part of ALSE records or aircraft logbook per unit SOP and DA PAM 738-751 disposition rules.

Tip: Use black ink or pencil where specified. Keep entries legible and complete for audits or transfers.

Importance in Army Aviation and ALSE Programs

Survival radios and ELTs are vital components of Aviation Life Support Equipment (ALSE). Regular inspections documented on DA Form 2408-23 help prevent failures in life-threatening situations. This form integrates with related records like DA Form 2408-24 (Survival Kit) and supports broader programs in TC 3-04.72 and other ALSE manuals.

U.S. Army units, especially aviation, use this form to maintain readiness, track battery shelf life, and ensure compliance during inspections, deployments, or aircraft transfers.

  • DA PAM 738-751 — Functional Users Manual for TAMMS-A (primary guidance).
  • DA Form 2408-24 (Survival Kit Inspection).
  • DA Form 2404 or 2408-13 series for related maintenance.
  • Applicable Technical Manuals (TMs) for specific radio models.

Download and Access Official Resources

Official Download: DA Form 2408-23 PDF from Army Publishing Directorate.

For the latest guidance, consult your unit ALSE technician, Aviation Safety Officer, or the most current version of DA PAM 738-751 available on armypubs.army.mil.

Keywords: DA Form 2408-23, Survival Radio Inspection Record, Emergency Locator Transmitter, Army ALSE forms, DA PAM 738-751, aviation maintenance records.

This article is for informational purposes and based on official U.S. Army publications. Always refer to current regulations and your chain of command for official procedures.