Japanese firm ICOM under criticism after explosions in Lebanon

Following a series of explosions involving pager devices across Lebanon, concerns have arisen about ICOM radios, specifically the Japanese-made IC-82 models, which were reportedly damaged in the incidents.

Images of damaged ICOM radios have circulated on social media in the wake of the explosions. However, ICOM Inc., the Japanese company that manufactures these devices, has not yet issued a statement regarding the incidents.

ICOM radios are used globally for various communication purposes and are popular among amateur radio operators. The IC-82 model, designed for high-frequency communication, features a plastic casing and a 1650mAh battery. It operates as a handheld “walkie-talkie” with a frequency range of 54x139x36.7 millimeters and weighs 390 grams.

The device can store up to 207 channels and includes a “call sign” feature for identifying amateur radio operators. Typically, IC-82 radios are used for amateur radio communication, emergency services, and hobby purposes.

According to the company’s website, ICOM products are sold in over 80 countries and include categories such as amateur radios, marine radios, aviation radios, and professional mobile radios (PMR). ICOM’s international sales and service network extends to subsidiaries in the U.S., Australia, Germany, Spain, and China.

ICOM radios are sometimes used by military or paramilitary groups for emergency and training purposes. The company’s website notes that its land mobile radios are utilized by the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Marine Corps.