The Battleship Iowa Amateur Radio Association (BIARA), a California 501(C)7 corporation, is an association of radio amateurs whose purpose is the support of radio activities on, or associated with, the Battleship Iowa. The operation of the Battleship Iowa is under the control of the Pacific Battleship Center (PBC). While BIARA is and will continue to be an organization separate from PBC, members of BIARA who engage in amateur radio activities aboard the Battleship Iowa are required to become volunteers of PBC and to abide by all volunteer guidelines and directives as may be established by PBC; including, but not limited to the completion of a volunteer application, having a PBC ID Card issued, and attending a volunteer orientation.

BIARA will act as the representative of the Battleship Iowa and the Pacific Battleship Center within the amateur radio community; in this role, BIARA shall promote the Battleship Iowa, the Pacific Battleship Center (PBC), the National Museum of the Surface Navy, the interests and advancement of amateur radio, coordinate the activities of the associates in providing public service and provide the opportunity and facilities for the gathering and others interested in the hobby.