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AN/PRD-12, Lightweight Mantransportable Radio Direction Finder System (LMRDFS)

The LMRDFS is a mantransportable ground based communications intercept, processing, and direction finding system. The system searches for, intercepts, and provides for direction finding locations of enemy HF/VHF/UHF communications emitters. The system's dual channel design gives it speed, high accuracy, and operational flexibility. It can stand alone on intercept and direction-finding missions. On emitter location missions, it works as part of a network that may include larger systems, such as Teammate, AN/TRQ-32A(V)2. The AN/PRD-12 will interoperate with the TEAMMATE system via communications links in the direction finding mode. The system is ideal for intercept/DF operations in light, airborne, air assault and SOF operations. The 60 pound system can be carried by two soldiers. The receiver/processor subsystem fits in one soldier's ALICE pack and the antenna subsystem goes in another pack. A complete station can be rapidly relocated, optimizing its use in the forward areas of operations. External communications are provided by secure Combat Net Radio (CNR).

The system consists of a receiver/processor and antenna subsystems that can be deployed by two personnel. There are six AN/PRD-12 systems per Light Division and twelve systems per USASOC Special Forces. A total of 110 systems are being procured for FORSCOM/USASOC and TRADOC. Ninety-nine additional systems are being procured for the TEAMMATE HF frequency extension materiel change. In addition, the PRD-12 has been procured for use in the Marine Corps Top Hunter System.

TRANSPORTATION CHARACTERISTICS / LIMITATIONS: Mantransportable, No Limitations.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND:

Dec 87 Contract awarded.

Jun 89 System Confidence Demonstration.

Aug 90 Completed testing at Fort Huachuca.

Nov 90 Contract Modifications awarded to demonstrate frequency extension.

Apr 93 Initiate Fieldings.

REQUIREMENTS DOCUMENT: QRC-59 approved by AEWIC, Jun 86 .

TYPE CLASSIFICATION: LPU based on QRC-59.

SYSTEM SUMMARY

FEATURES:
  • · Search: Manual or auto
  • · Intercept: HF/VHF/UHF
  • · Locate:
    • Determines/reports LOB data to other LMRDFS or Teammate systems
    • Graphically displays LOB data
    • Receives/processes LOB data from other LMRDFS
  • · Communications:
    • Receives/generates taskings; reports results
    • Transmits/receives secure data

PHYSICAL PARAMETERS:
  • · Receiver/processor
    • 12"x12.8"x5" (stowed)
    • 24 lbs
  • · VHF/UHF antenna
    • 14"x6"x28" (stowed)
    • 27 lbs
  • · HF Antenna
    • 13" long (stowed)
    • 9 lbs
PERFORMANCE AND CHARACTERISTICS:
  • · Power:
    • BA-4386/U (Magnesium)
    • BA-5598/U (Lithium)
    • BB-586/U (Nicad)

EVENT SCHEDULE FISCAL YEAR

96

97

98

99

00

01

QTR

1 2 3 4

1 2 3 4

1 2 3 4

1 2 3 4

1 2 3 4

1 2 3 4

Field LPA

3-----

--------4

 

 

 

 

CDU Redesign

3------

-----2

 

 

 

 

Transition to Readiness

 

2

 

 

 

 

The handheld display unit was last procured in 1988 and was not economically repairable. The Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) unit had become obsolete and was experiencing a high failure rate due to condensation and freezing. Because of advances in technology, no manufacturer could be found who was willing to produce the old version. The AN/PRD-12 Integrated Product Team (IPT) developed a performance specification that allowed the use of commercial parts and practices. Recently, a production contract was awarded for the new display unit, which incorporates numerous improvements.


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http://www.fas.org/man/dod-101/sys/land/an-prd-12.htm
Maintained by Robert Sherman
Originally created by John Pike
Updated Thursday, January 21, 1999 9:54:36 AM