Which radio is used for over the horizon (OTH) communications on LCS?

• A. AN/PRC-117F
• B. AN/PRC-152
• C. SINCGARS
• D. AN/ALQ-63

Answer: (A)

Over-the-horizon communications rely on bypassing the radio horizon by using satellite links or other long-range relay paths. The radio with built-in satellite communications capability makes this possible, enabling beyond-line-of-sight reach from the ship to distant units or networks. The AN/PRC-117F is a versatile, multiband radio that includes UHF SATCOM, allowing secure, beyond-line-of-sight transmissions, which is exactly what OTH requires on a Littoral Combat Ship. The AN/PRC-152 is primarily a compact, LOS-capable radio with limited or external-added long-range options, and SINCGARS is a secure line-of-sight radio, not designed for OTH. The AN/ALQ-63 is an electronic warfare system, not a general-purpose radio for comms. So the radio that enables OTH on LCS is the AN/PRC-117F.