[ARC5] B-36J Radio Operator Position

[D. Platt]

Gents,

European countries all have full UHF capabilities to support NATO 
operations.  Just like US airports and airways facilities, they now have 
the full UHF coverage ability.  That said, most countries in Europe (and 
others) have moved to an even closer spacing for VHF AM that we 
currently have.  For ops above FL190 the channel spacing requirement is 
now 8.33 kHz. I have to assume that all air carriers have got new 
equipment for operations in Europe but, so far, not here.  If they kept 
it the same standard, here, only air carrier and heavy corporate iron 
would need to spend the money.  I'd hate to have to fork over $8-$10k 
for two new radios!   I remember when we went from about 30 channels to 
90 channels, to 180, then 360, and now 720.   That included air carrier 
and the general-av fleet. Finally, I note that a number of US military 
aircraft (fixed and rotary wing) have both VHF and UHF, these days.

Jeep - K3HVG