Harris Rf 5800h

The Harris RF-5800H (Falcon II series) is a legacy high-frequency (HF) tactical radio system that set the standard for multiband manpack communication. While it remains in use globally, it has transitioned to a "secondary market" status, superseded by the Falcon III RF-7800H series. W2HxL3Harris

Product Overview

The RF-5800H-MP is a software-defined radio (SDR) covering 1.6 MHz to 60 MHz, bridging HF and low-band VHF. W2HxL3Harris It is widely recognized for its "two-in-one" design, allowing a single unit to handle both long-range beyond-line-of-sight (BLOS) and short-range tactical communications. W2Hx

* Key Capabilities: Supports Automatic Link Establishment (ALE 2G/3G) for fast frequency selection, digital voice (MELP/LPC-10), and embedded GPS for situational awareness and ECCM timing. W2HxL3Harris

* Security: Features high-speed Citadel® encryption (ASIC-based) for voice and data, with backward compatibility modes for older military radio systems. W2Hx

* Performance: Delivers up to 20W (HF) and 10W (VHF) power output, with data rates reaching 9,600 bps via MIL-STD-188-110B waveforms. W2HxW2Hx

Market Trends & Insights

* Lifecycle Shift: The RF-5800H is currently in the mature/legacy phase of its lifecycle. The market has shifted toward the RF-7800H-MP (Falcon III), which offers wideband HF capabilities (up to 120 kHz bandwidth), faster data rates (120 kbps), and a significantly smaller, lighter form factor using only one battery. L3HarrisGroups

* Secondary Market Demand: Due to its legendary reliability, there is a robust secondary market among defense contractors, emergency services, and licensed collectors. Recent market listings for tested, functional units range between $5,800 and $7,000, depending on firmware and included accessories. EbayGroups

* Global Footprint: Extensive adoption continues in Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, where it remains a staple for terrestrial tactical networks. Army-TechnologyWashingtontechnology

* Supply Chain: New OEM units are increasingly rare; most current sourcing focuses on refurbished units and compatible components (antennas, power adapters like the RF-5800H-V006, and batteries). L3HarrisParttarget

Strategic Recommendation

For active duty or high-reliability tactical requirements, procurement should target the Falcon III RF-7800H series for modern wideband networking. However, for cost-sensitive operations or maintaining existing fleets, the RF-5800H remains a viable "workhorse" with a well-established ecosystem of third-party support and spares. Groups