How many hours does the PRC-149 beacon operate on its designated battery life?

The PRC-149 beacon is designed to operate for a specific duration based on its battery life, and thorough knowledge of this characteristic is essential for effective operation in field situations. The beacon is intended to provide a reliable signal for search and rescue operations and has a battery life that ensures it remains operational for a limited time, essential for locating individuals in distress.

The correct answer is rooted in the operational specifications of the PRC-149, which indicates that the beacon has a battery life of 8 hours. This duration is based on the need for a balance between effective transmission and the overall weight and size constraints of the device. Understanding this operational limit is critical for users as it impacts how and when the device should be deployed during missions.

This finite battery life underscores the importance of proper planning and timing when utilizing the beacon in real-world scenarios, making it imperative for personnel to be aware of how long they can expect the device to function before needing replacement or recharging of the batteries.