The AN/ARC-190 is a high-frequency (HF) communication system utilized on a wide range of military aircraft, including cargo planes, bombers, reconnaissance aircraft, and helicopters. The system is essential for long-range communications, especially when aircraft operate in environments where satellite communication is unavailable or unreliable. The AN/ARC-190 plays a critical role in enabling global operations and secure communications for military forces.

Aircraft Platforms

The AN/ARC-190 is installed on a variety of military aircraft, enhancing their communication capabilities. These include:

• Cargo and Transport Aircraft: C-130 Hercules, C-141 Starlifter, C-5 Galaxy, C-9 Nightingale, KC-10 Extender, C-20, and C-17 Globemaster III.
• Refueling Aircraft: KC-135 Stratotanker.
• Bombers: B-1 Lancer and B-52 Stratofortress.
• Reconnaissance and Command Aircraft: E-3 Sentry (AWACS), E-4 Advanced Airborne Command Post, E-8 JSTARS.
• Fighter Jets: F-15 Eagle, F-16 Fighting Falcon.
• Helicopters: H-53, H-60.
• Other Aircraft: Bell Boeing V-22 Osprey and S-2T Tracker.

System Description

The AN/ARC-190 operates across the HF spectrum, between 2-30 MHz, and transmits at a power output of over 300 watts. The system uses a dual heterodyne receiver/transmitter design, with intermediate frequencies (IF) of 97.8 MHz and 1.8 MHz. Key features of the system include:

• Antenna Coupler: The antenna coupler is pressurized with dry nitrogen at 7±1 PSI to prevent high voltage arcing, and corrosion, and to ensure uniform cooling. This contributes to the system’s durability and reliability in harsh environments.
• Control Capabilities: The system offers 30 preset channels, 30,000 normal channels, and 280,000 channels when using Single Side Band (SSB) mode. It includes functions like squelch, power control, and access to eight different operational modes.

Modes of Operation

1. UV (Upper Voice): Standard upper sideband voice communication.
2. LV (Lower Voice): Lower sideband voice communication.
3. UD (Upper Data): Upper sideband data communication.
4. LD (Lower Data): Lower sideband data communication.
5. CW (Continuous Wave): Continuous wave, often used for Morse code.
6. AME (Amplitude Modulated Equivalent): A mode similar to AM (Amplitude Modulation) but optimized for military use.
7. P (Preset): Pre-programmed channel selection.
8. A (Unused): An unused mode.

ACS Modification (Late 1990s)

In the late 1990s, the AN/ARC-190 systems on various airframes were modified as part of an upgrade known as the Auto Communications System (ACS) modification. This update included the installation of a new control panel and the ACS processor. The ACS allowed for more streamlined long-distance communications by linking HF radio systems with commercial phone lines via ground stations. The ACS mod improved the system’s ease of use and expanded its functionality in coordinating long-range, high-priority military communications.

Importance and Role

The AN/ARC-190 system is a vital component of military communication infrastructure, allowing for secure and reliable HF communication across vast distances. It is particularly useful in situations where other forms of communication, such as satellite links, are either unavailable or compromised. The system’s versatility, with its multiple operational modes and ability to interface with global communication networks, makes it an indispensable tool in both tactical and strategic military operations.

References

• U.S. Department of Defense Technical Documentation: Detailed descriptions of the AN/ARC-190 system, its features, and operational modes are typically included in technical manuals and system specifications provided by the U.S. military and defense contractors. These documents explain the system’s design, performance, and implementation across various aircraft platforms.
• Jane’s Military Communications: Jane’s is a well-known defense information provider that includes comprehensive data on military communication systems like the AN/ARC-190. Their reports typically include specifications, usage, and upgrade details.
• GlobalSecurity.org: This website provides overviews of various military systems, including communication technologies like the AN/ARC-190. They provide insights into the system’s development, operational role, and technical aspects.
• Federation of American Scientists (FAS): FAS maintains a database on U.S. military technology, including radio communication systems like the AN/ARC-190. Their technical reports offer insights into the system’s function and significance in military operations.
• Raytheon Company: Raytheon, one of the defense contractors that produce the AN/ARC-190, provides product documentation and technical information. Their materials detail the system’s specifications and its application in various aircraft.
• U.S. Air Force Communications Command Manuals: These manuals provide specific operational guidelines and maintenance instructions for systems like the AN/ARC-190 used on Air Force aircraft.

• Military & Aerospace Electronics: Articles and reports from this publication offer insights into the development and evolution of airborne HF communication systems like the AN/ARC-190.