Which statement about DF monitoring by the Coast Guard is accurate?

• A. DF monitoring is required on listed frequencies
• B. DF monitoring is not required
• C. DF monitoring occurs on all frequencies
• D. DF monitoring is not necessary in emergencies

Answer: (B)

Direction finding is a capability used to locate the source of a radio transmission. The Coast Guard does not have a blanket obligation to monitor DF on every frequency or to conduct DF continuously across the spectrum. Instead, DF is deployed as-needed to support search and rescue, typically in response to a distress signal or when there’s a specific transmission that needs locating. Monitoring is focused on standard distress and safety channels, and DF is applied where it will aid locating the transmitter. Because of that, there isn’t a requirement to perform DF monitoring on all frequencies, nor is it appropriate to say DF isn’t needed in emergencies—emergency situations often rely on locating the distress signal, for which DF is a critical tool.