AN/PRC-158 Multi-channel Manpack (MCMP) is a software-defined radio developed by L3Harris that provides simultaneous dual-channel communications across a wide frequency range. L3Harris® Fast. Forward. Key Technical Specifications Frequency Range: Covers the full 30 MHz to 2500 MHz spectrum.
Two independent channels capable of simultaneous voice and data transmission. Power Output: Narrowband: SATCOM/Wideband: Encryption:
Features Sierra™ II-based Type 1 encryption (Suite A/B) and is NSA certified for Top Secret and below.
Includes an embedded SAASM GPS receiver for automatic position reporting and enhanced situational awareness. L3Harris® Fast. Forward. Waveforms & Interoperability The radio is built on a Software Communications Architecture (SCA)
, allowing for software updates to add new capabilities without hardware changes. L3Harris® Fast. Forward. Narrowband Waveforms:
AM/FM, VHF/UHF LOS, SINCGARS, HAVEQUICK I/II, and ARROW (a resilient fast-hopping waveform). Wideband Waveforms: Includes SRW, ANW2®, and TSM-X™. Special Modes: Integrated hardware for (Mobile User Objective System) satellite communications. L3Harris® Fast. Forward. Physical Configuration
Compact and lightweight manpack configuration designed for field use by individual soldiers.
Approximately 17.2 lbs when equipped with a battery box and two BB-590/U batteries (similar to other manpack configurations). Interfaces:
Supports USB, Ethernet, and RS-232 for external data connections. L3Harris® Fast. Forward. Operational Use an+prc158+manual
The AN/PRC-158 is used across multiple military branches to provide air-to-ground interoperability, often serving as a communications bridge between aircraft and ground units. It can be used in manpack, vehicular, or fixed-base configurations. L3Harris® Fast. Forward.
Detailed operational manuals (such as the specific Technical Manual or TM) for the AN/PRC-158 are typically Distribution Restricted
to the Department of Defense and its contractors and are not usually available for public download. Authorized personnel can typically access these through Army Knowledge Online (AKO) L3Harris Customer Portal GlobalSecurity.org component identification guide for this radio?
AN/PRC-158 Multi-channel Manpack | L3Harris® Fast. Forward.
A comprehensive operator's guide for the L3Harris AN/PRC-158 Multi-channel Manpack (MCMP) is available through official Army "Smart Books" and manufacturer datasheets. As a Falcon IV software-defined radio, it features a familiar user interface designed to reduce training time for those familiar with previous Harris tactical radios. Key Technical Specifications
Frequency Range: Covers the full 30 MHz to 2.5 GHz spectrum.
Channels: Dual-channel system capable of simultaneous voice and data transmission.
Power Output: 10W for narrowband, 20W for SATCOM, and up to 20W peak for wideband. Crossbanding The AN/PRC-158 can act as a gateway
Battery Compatibility: Uses standard BB-2590/U, BA-5590/U, or BA-5390/U batteries.
Encryption: Sierra™ II-based Type 1 (NSA certified Top Secret). Core Operations Guide Powering On & Basic Setup:
Attach the desired antenna to the N-type connector (one per channel).
Connect the battery or use a power supply like the AS0158-HR-158 Docking Station which provides 19-34 VDC.
Turn the volume/power knob to the midrange to activate; observe the green "Active Net" LED for status. Waveform Selection:
Narrowband: Supports SINCGARS, HAVEQUICK I/II, VHF/UHF LOS, and ARROW (fast-hopping). Wideband: Supports SRW and ANW2®C.
SATCOM: Fully equipped with integrated MUOS hardware for satellite connectivity. Loading COMSEC Keys:
The radio is compatible with various key fill devices including the AN/PYQ-10 (SKL) and AN/CYZ-10 DTD. It can store up to 300 keys per channel. Network Configuration: Type: V/UHF Manpack Transceiver
Use the Windows-based Communications Planning Application (CPA) for mission file management and preset configuration.
The radio supports embedded routing and crossbanding between channels. Maintenance & Resources
Filtering: If using a docking power supply, ensure filter assemblies are cleaned or replaced regularly to prevent internal damage.
Advanced Guides: Tactical smart books and additional technical data can be found on the U.S. Army Innovation website.
The AN/PRC-158 can act as a gateway. It can receive a transmission on one waveform (e.g., SINCGARS VHF) and retransmit it on another (e.g., MUOS SATCOM). This allows dismounted troops to communicate with command elements over the horizon without specialized infrastructure.
The AN/PRC-158 is a next-generation, multi-mission manpack radio designed for secure, reliable tactical communications. It is part of the U.S. military’s Handheld, Manpack, and Small Form Fit (HMS) program. Developed primarily by Thales Defense & Security, the AN/PRC-158 serves as a critical node in the tactical network, providing warfighters with Line-of-Sight (LOS) and Beyond-Line-of-Sight (BLOS) capabilities in a single, ruggedized chassis.
Unlike its predecessors, the PRC-158 is designed to support the Mobile User Objective System (MUOS) waveform, which provides cellular-like coverage for troops in the field, significantly extending communication ranges without relying on tactical satellite relays that require precise pointing.