TheAN/ARC-182 is a family of militaryaircraftradiotransceivers designed for two-way, multi-mode voice communications over a 30 to 400 MHz frequency range. It covers bothUltra High Frequency (UHF) andVery High Frequency (VHF) bands withAM,FM, as appropriate. The ARC-182 radio supports theHAVE QUICK IIanti-jam waveforms, with an optional control unit. It features aguard channel capability for monitoring 40.5, 121.5, 156.8 and 243 MHz. Transmitter minimum power is 10 watts, AM, and 15 watts, FM. The RT-1250A model radio can communicate with other avionics over aMIL-STD-1553 data bus.[1]
In accordance with theJoint Electronics Type Designation System (JETDS), the "AN/ARC-182" designation represents the 182nd design of an Army-Navy airborne electronic device for radio communications equipment. The JETDS system also now is used to name allDepartment of Defense electronic systems.
Developed in the late 1970s, the ARC-182s were manufactured byRockwell Collins and are installed in a range of U.S. Navy, Marines and Coast Guard aircraft. Its frequency range includes the following bands:[2]
A single ARC-182 radio allowed pilots to communicate with ground forces for close air support, civilian air traffic control and military UHF-AM users, a unique capability at the time. The ARC-182 (V) version added the ability to communicate with commercial shipping and UHF-FM systems.[3][4] The -182(V) version added VHF-FM maritime and UHF-FM capabilities. The radio's utility has attracted international attention; the set is being used in 35 countries.
Channel spacing is 25 kHz in all bands.
The transceiver weights about 10 lb (4.54 kg). Available accessories include remote controls, transmit power amplifiers, antennas, and ground support equipment.[5] It has been largely replaced by theAN/ARC-210 series in U.S. systems.[6] The ARC-210 is an improved version of the ARC-182, adding jam-reisistantSINCGARS capability to communicate with Army radios for close air support.[7]
The ARC-182 was used in over 40 different U.S. fixed wing and rotary aircraft, as well as in ground, transportable and mobile applications, and was in service in 42 countries. Starting in 1994, the ARC-182, along with the UHF-only ARC-187, was used to upgrade the U.S. Navy's fleet ofLockheed P-3 Orions to add satellite and HaveQuick capabilities and to meet newer civilian air traffic control requirements.
The -182 was unique in that it enabled pilots to communicate in the VHF-FM close air support, VHF-AM air traffic control and UHF-AM military frequency ranges through a single radio.
The AN/ARC-210(V) EP Radio, a Navy-led, tri-service program, is planned to replace the AN/ARC-182(V) radio
Collins new ARC-210 UHF/VHF radio … is an improved version of the company's ARC-182. The new radio is designed to addSincgars capability to communicate with the Army for close air support, as well as Have Quick-2 for Air Force compatibility.
