DA Form 4660: Army MARS Station License Guide – DA Form 4660 is the Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS) Station License (also referred to as the Authorization to Operate or ATO). It is issued by the U.S. Army to approved volunteer amateur radio operators who join the Army MARS program. This document authorizes the holder to operate a MARS radio station on designated government frequencies using their personal amateur radio equipment, typically from home.
The form is associated with the address S&I USACC, Ft Huachuca, AZ 85613, which corresponds to Headquarters, Army MARS, under U.S. Army Network Enterprise Technology Command (NETCOM) at Fort Huachuca, Arizona.
Understanding the Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS)
The Military Auxiliary Radio System (MARS) is a Department of Defense-sponsored program that organizes and trains licensed amateur radio volunteers to provide high-frequency (HF) contingency communications. It supports DOD and Army requirements, including emergency communications for civil authorities under Defense Support of Civil Authorities (DSCA) policies.
Army MARS members (called Auxiliarists) use their own stations and equipment to augment military communications when needed. There are no government-owned MARS stations; all are operated by civilian volunteers.
Key missions include:
- Providing contingency HF communications.
- Supporting civil authorities during emergencies.
- Training and exercising with military units.
- Improving HF radio techniques through experimentation.
Who Needs DA Form 4660 and Army MARS Membership?
DA Form 4660 is issued to individuals (U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, age 18+) who successfully apply and are accepted into Army MARS. You must hold a valid FCC amateur radio license (any class, though General or higher is recommended for practical HF operations).
Eligibility requirements include:
- Unrestricted access to an HF station (2-30 MHz, minimum 100W output, capable of SSB and MIL-STD data modes).
- Ability to maintain radio and computer systems independently (including software, networks, and recovery).
- Willingness to undergo a background check and sign a non-disclosure agreement.
- Good moral character, no felony convictions, no terrorist associations, etc.
- Commitment to minimum participation (e.g., 18 hours HF operations per quarter).
MARS is volunteer-based with no pay or equipment provided. Members donate time and use of personal stations.
How to Apply for Army MARS and Receive DA Form 4660?
- Review AR 25-6 and relevant MARS documents.
- Complete the current Application to Operate a MARS Station (Form AM-1, not the older DA Form 4660 for application).
- Email the filled PDF (typed, not handwritten) to the designated HQ Army MARS address at Fort Huachuca.
- Upon approval, you receive your MARS call sign and the DA Form 4660 authorization (valid for a set period, e.g., one year, and renewable).
Processing typically takes up to 10 business days. Submit only to HQ—do not send to regional directors.
What DA Form 4660 Authorizes?
The form serves as your official wallet- and frame-sized authorization. It includes your assigned MARS call sign and expiration date. It is not transferable and authorizes operation on specific government frequencies in MARS service.
Members may need to modify amateur equipment (per NTIA standards) to operate outside ham bands while in MARS service. Antennas should support effective long-distance HF communications across 2-30 MHz.
Benefits and Responsibilities of MARS Membership
Benefits:
- Serve your country using amateur radio skills.
- Participate in military exercises, real-world contingency support, and emergency comms.
- Develop advanced HF and military communications expertise.
- Build camaraderie with like-minded operators.
Responsibilities:
- Monthly capabilities reports.
- Minimum HF airtime (72 hours/year).
- Participate in exercises.
- Follow strict operational security, message formatting, and procedures (MIL-STD-188 series).
- Maintain equipment readiness.
Common Questions About DA Form 4660 and Army MARS
Do I need to modify my radio?
Often yes, to access MARS frequencies. Manufacturers provide modification instructions.
Is MARS only for Army units?
No—volunteers primarily operate individual home stations supporting military and civil needs. Units train on the network separately.
Where is Army MARS headquartered?
Fort Huachuca, AZ, under NETCOM.
For the most current information, visit the official Army MARS site (usarmymars.org) or NETCOM resources. Always use trusted .mil or official MARS channels for applications and guidance.
This article is for informational purposes and targets U.S. amateur radio operators interested in volunteer military auxiliary service. Requirements and procedures can change—verify directly with HQ Army MARS.