rc-300-2 ( trc-302 ), trc-300-3
built by thompson-csf, the trc-302, or more accurately, the trc-300-2, entered service in 1972. if compared with u.s. equipment of that time ( prc-74 ), it would have boasted several advanced features. these would include smaller size, greater frequency coverage, better ergonomic design, and operational mode flexibility.
the trc-302 is an hf all mode backpack set, as such it is one of only two sets of it's type to be encountered, the other being the racal tra-931. if compared with that radio, the trc-302 is of a smaller size, better mechanical construction, more advanced circuit design, is completely water tight, and operates from a lower supply voltage, thus overall better suited for a front like combat environment.
it's controls are all arranged down one side of the radio as is common in european designs. this fashion does afford better access to these controls by both a secondary, and primary operator while it is in position on his back, also some measure of protection from weather.
though it would appear that they might be more vulnerable to damage under combat conditions. the only known radios in u.s. inventory to utilise this configuration, are also of foreign origin.
features include lightweight waterproof aluminium alloy case, usability by unskilled operators, cos/mos synthesiser design with extreme stability, and maximised use of integrated circuits and other solid state devices, with no mechanical relays. modulator internal design utilising plug in modules and circuit boards. ancillary equipment that will allow it's use as a vehicular or semi-fixed station with power levels up to 100 watts.
ops 2-30mc, in 1kc steps ( some models 100cps steps, and pre-set channel ability ). rf power output is rated 20watts high, and 6 watts low, from a 14.5 volt 4 amp hour nicad battery. modes include usb, lsb, cw, ame.
for the most part the trc-302 is one of the more attractive radios sets known to be in use by the iraqi's, though it too is a dated design, and no longer believed to be in production. it is reported to have seen wide spread use in africa, south america, the middle east, and australia.
for trc-552 and trc-570, see section ( ii ) iraqi domestic production radios