Uniden MHS157UV Dual Band VHF/UHF CB 2-way Radio

Stay connected on water and land with dual-band marine communication that floats, survives submersion, and delivers reliable performance in Australian conditions.

Product Overview

The Uniden MHS157UV is a rugged dual-band VHF/UHF two-way radio engineered for Australian and New Zealand marine and land applications. This waterproof handheld combines 5-watt VHF marine channels with 80-channel UHF CB capability, making it ideal for boat-to-shore communication, coastal 4WD trips, beach camping, and remote worksites. The floating IPX7/JIS7-rated design ensures it won't sink if dropped overboard, while the large backlit LCD and glow seals provide clear visibility in low light. Supplied with a desktop drop-in charger, rechargeable lithium-ion battery, and 12V cigarette lighter cable, the MHS157UV is ready for extended marine and touring use straight from the box.

Key Specifications

• Dual band operation: VHF marine + UHF CB in one handheld unit
• VHF transmit power: 5.0 watts maximum output
• UHF transmit power: 2.5 watts maximum output
• 80 UHF CB channels (channels 22, 23, 61-63 restricted as per Australian regulations)
• Waterproof rating: IPX7/JIS7 certified (submersible to 1m for 30 minutes)
• Floating design prevents loss overboard
• International VHF marine channels included
• Weather channel access with dedicated key
• Range extender (duplex) capability on UHF
• 3-year Australian warranty included

Features & Benefits

Dual Band Versatility for Marine and Land Use
Switch seamlessly between VHF marine channels for boat communication and UHF CB for land-based contact with 4WD convoys, campsites, or base stations. Perfect for coastal touring where you need both marine and inland comms.

Waterproof and Floating Design
IPX7/JIS7 certification means the radio survives full submersion up to 1 metre for 30 minutes. The lightweight floating construction ensures it stays on the surface if knocked into the water during rough conditions or fast launches.

Desktop Drop-In Charger with 12V Cable
Convenient tabletop charging cradle plus cigarette lighter lead lets you charge at home, in the vehicle, or on the boat. Rechargeable lithium-ion battery provides extended runtime without constant replacements.

Large Backlit LCD with Glow Seals
Easy-to-read display and luminous seals around the keypad ensure you can operate the radio in low light, night fishing, or early morning departures without fumbling.

Interference Reduction and Privacy Features
38 CTCSS codes and DCS digital squelch eliminate background chatter on busy channels. Busy channel lockout prevents accidental transmission over active conversations.

Transmitter Boost Key
Instant access to maximum power output when you need to punch through weak signal areas or extend range in remote coastal or outback zones.

Memory Scan and Dual/Triple Watch
Scan stored channels to monitor marine traffic or set dual/triple watch to keep an ear on multiple frequencies simultaneously—essential for safety and situational awareness.

Vibrate Mode for Silent Alerts
Receive incoming calls via vibration alert when operating in noise-sensitive environments or when you need discreet notification.

Designed and Engineered in Japan
Uniden's Japanese engineering heritage delivers reliability and build quality suited to harsh Australian marine and inland conditions.

Technical Specs

• VHF Frequency: Marine band (156-163 MHz)
• UHF Frequency: 476-477 MHz (Australian UHF CB)
• VHF Power Output: 5.0W (high), selectable lower power
• UHF Power Output: 2.5W (high), selectable lower power
• Channels: International VHF marine + 80 UHF CB channels
• Waterproof Rating: IPX7/JIS7 (1m for 30 minutes)
• Battery: Rechargeable lithium-ion (included)
• Charger: Desktop drop-in cradle + AC adaptor + 12V cigarette lead
• Display: Large LCD with backlight
• CTCSS Codes: 38 interference eliminator codes
• DCS Codes: Digital coded squelch
• Scanning: Memory scan mode
• Audio: Built-in speaker + external speaker mic jack
• Mounting: Belt clip and mounting hardware included
• Warranty: 3 years Australian warranty

Compatible With / Goes Well With

• Marine VHF antennas (standard connector)
• External speaker microphones (compatible with built-in jack)
• UHF CB antennas for vehicle or base station use (when using UHF mode)
• 12V marine or vehicle power systems (via supplied cigarette lead)
• Desktop chargers and spare battery packs (Uniden compatible accessories)
• Boats, tinnies, kayaks, and personal watercraft
• 4WD vehicles for convoy communication
• Coastal caravans and campsites requiring shore-to-vessel contact
• Commercial fishing, charter operations, and recreational boating
• Beach recovery operations and surf lifesaving applications

Note: Channels 22 and 23 are restricted to telemetry/telecommand (no voice transmission). Channels 61, 62, and 63 are receive-only per Australian regulations.

What's in the box

• 1 x MHS157UV Radio
• 1 x Desktop Charger Cradle
• 1 x Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery
• 1 x Belt Clip
• 1 x AC Adaptor
• 1 x Cigarette Lead Cable
• 1 x Battery Tray
• 1 x Mounting Hardware
• 1 x Owner's Manual

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this radio legal for use in Australian waters and on land?

Yes. The MHS157UV is compliant with Australian marine VHF and UHF CB regulations. Marine channels operate under ACMA licensing, while UHF CB is licence-free for general use.

Can I use this radio if it falls in the water?

Absolutely. The IPX7/JIS7 rating means it survives submersion up to 1m for 30 minutes, and the floating design keeps it on the surface for easy retrieval.

Does it come with everything needed to start using it?

Yes. The box includes the radio, desktop charger, AC adaptor, 12V cigarette cable, rechargeable battery, belt clip, battery tray, mounting hardware, and manual—ready to charge and use.

What's the difference between VHF and UHF modes?

VHF marine channels (5W) are used for boat-to-boat and boat-to-shore communication at sea. UHF CB (2.5W, 80 channels) is for land-based comms with vehicles, campsites, and inland stations.

How do I charge it in my boat or 4WD?

Use the supplied 12V cigarette lighter cable to power the desktop charger from your vehicle or boat accessory socket. Alternatively, charge via mains power using the AC adaptor.