Icom IC-V82


The Icom IC-V82 is a VHF band handheld transceiver designed by Icom for radio amateurs and professionals who require VHF communication. Although it is a little outdated,, the IC-V82 is still valued in the second hand market for a number of additional features such as the ability to convert it, by adding a module, into a digital device, which make it ideal for certain applications requiring voice and/or data encryption.

Features

It is a portable VHF transceiver with coverage in the two-meter band and a maximum output power of 7 watts. It was manufactured and sold by Icom from 2004 to 2014.
  • frequency : VHF 136-174 MHz
  • output power : 7 W, 4 W, 0.5 W
  • modulation : FM
  • channel memory : 207 channels
  • screen : LCD with backlight
  • battery : BP-222N or BP-227

    Digital Module

One of the most outstanding features of the IC-V82 is the ability to convert it into a digital device using the additional UT-118 module sold by Icom Inc. This module allowed the addition of advanced digital communication and encryption capabilities, including a trunking DMR protocol, digital voice communication and low-speed data in D-STAR format.

History

In June 2022, United Against Nuclear Iran, a U.S. advocacy organization, identified the Icom IC-V82 as being used by Hezbollah, a U.S. designated Foreign Terrorist Organization. It sent a letter to Icom outlining its concerns about the dual-use capability of the transceiver and regarding Icom's business ties to Power Group and Faza Gostrar, which claims to be the "Official ICOM representative in Iran".
Many of the devices purchased by Hezbollah that later played a role in the 2024 Lebanon electronic device attacks, killing at least 25 people and wounding over 708, were reported as being IC-V82s. Icom opened an investigation into the case on September 19, 2024, while a sales executive at the company's U.S. subsidiary said the devices involved appeared to be counterfeit units.

Counterfeit models and controversy

After Icom discontinued the IC-V82 in 2014, counterfeit models emerged in China. In addition, another counterfeit model was sold to Hezbollah, and many of the devices used by this group, including pagers like the Gold Apollo AR924, were exploded on September 18, 2024.
Having ceased its production, Icom issued an advisory warning about counterfeit transceivers, including the IC-V82. In October 2018, the company issued a cease-and-desist order against a Chinese manufacturer suspected of producing counterfeit Icom products; it also noted that this was not the first time it had taken such steps.

Protocols

IIDAS

IIDAS is Icom's implementation of the NXDN protocol for two-way digital radio products intended for commercial private land mobile radios and low-end public safety communications systems. NXDN is a Common Air Interface technical standard for mobile communications. It was jointly developed by Icom and Kenwood Corporation.

D-STAR

The "open" D-STAR radio system was developed by Icom based on digital radio protocols developed by the Japan Amateur Radio League and funded by the Ministry of Posts and Telecommunications of Japan. This system is designed to provide advanced voice and data communications over amateur radio using open standards.

Accessories and options

The IC-V82 has a variety of accessories that improve its functionality and ease of use:
  • Antenna : High gain antenna to improve reception and transmission.
  • Belt Clip : For comfortable and safe transport.
  • Optional batteries : Available in different capacities and technologies.