Final answer:
The statement is true; newer VHF radios typically come with Digital Selective Calling (DSC) on Channel 70, a feature that allows for automatic distress signaling and digital communications, designated by the FCC for maritime safety.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement about VHF radios usually coming equipped with DSC (Digital Selective Calling) on Channel 70 is true. DSC is a standard for sending pre-defined digital messages via the medium of VHF radio. This enables a radio to send an automatized distress signal, or selectively call other vessels or stations. DSC on VHF radios operates on Channel 70 and is separate from the channels used for regular voice communications.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) has designated Channel 70 for the exclusive use of DSC. It's an essential feature for maritime safety, enabling vessels to send distress alerts with their coordinates quickly in emergencies, and to communicate for non-emergency purposes using digitally encoded calls.