When was the first use of radiotelephone communication between ships recorded?

The first recorded use of radiotelephone communication between ships occurred in 1916, marking a significant leap in maritime communication technology. This advancement facilitated voice communication over long distances without the need for physical connections.

Prior to this, maritime communication relied heavily on visual signals, flags, and radio telegraphy, which required operators to send and receive Morse code. The introduction of radiotelephone communication allowed for more immediate and effective exchanges between vessels, improving safety and operational efficiency at sea. This development also played a critical role in the evolution of naval operations and commercial shipping as it set the stage for more sophisticated communication protocols that followed throughout the 20th century.