The Marine Corps published new procedures allowing experimental use of the electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) at eight designated installations under what's called "7.11 authority," a federal rule that lets agencies transmit without full prior authorization when the normal approval process is impractical. This matters for units doing RF-dependent experimentation, prototyping, or integration work at those locations. It does not replace any other required approvals, and it is not a shortcut for routine training or operations.
Heads up: This authority is strictly for experimentation and innovation. It cannot be used for routine training, exercises, or to dodge normal spectrum approval processes, and it is completely off-limits for Electronic Attack or Electronic Countermeasures testing under any circumstances.
Who it affects
This is primarily a technical and administrative policy for Installation Spectrum Managers (ISMs), Regional Marine Corps Installations (MCI) Spectrum Managers, and MARFOR/MEF spectrum managers. Units and organizations pursuing RF-dependent experimentation, prototype testing, or capability integration at the designated installations are also affected. The average reservist drilling at a weekend IDT is unlikely to interact with this directly.
What you need to do
If your unit is running or planning RF experiments at one of the eight designated installations, your spectrum manager needs to lead the request. Units do not self-certify or self-approve under 7.11. Here is how the process works:
- Assess whether the requirement can be met through traditional EMS approval processes first. 7.11 is an exception, not the default.
- Submit a temporary frequency proposal to the cognizant ISM via Spectrum XXI in the Frequency Resource Record System (FRRS) as early as possible, and at least 24 hours before planned operations when notification conditions apply.
- The ISM determines whether the request qualifies, is technically feasible, and can be deconflicted. Their approval covers spectrum only. Your unit still needs all other required command, range, safety, aviation, cybersecurity, and acquisition approvals separately.
- If harmful electromagnetic interference (EMI) occurs, stop transmitting immediately.
If you are an ISM or Regional Spectrum Manager, the full procedural tasks are in paragraphs 5.d.1 through 5.d.10 of MARADMIN 482/26.
Key dates
- Effective immediately upon release (7 October 2026)
- 24-hour minimum advance notice required before experimental operations when notification conditions under NTIA section 7.11.3 apply
The official version
References:
- NTIA Manual of Regulations and Procedures for Federal Radio Frequency Management (January 2023), specifically Chapter 7, Section 11
- MC4EB Publication 7 (FRRS SFAF PUB-7, May 2025)
POC: S.M. Nagy, Spectrum Management Engineer, DC I IC4 ICE Branch. Phone: 571-256-8843. Email: seth.m.nagy.civ@usmc.mil
This is written by a reservist, for reservists. It is not an official publication of HQMC or MARFORRES. Always verify guidance with your command or unit S-1 before acting on any article or summary.