Yes if you look at the schematic parts list it says it's a counterpoise antenna. That design is used for unbalance antennas, If the antenna is unbalanced, a radial system or counterpoise is necessary for operation to act as a RF ground. Because the normal purchaser has no intention of putting up a complex designed antenna system especially if the radio is used in a 2nd or 3rd story home there is usually no way to have a conventional earth ground, therefore this was used to offset some of the grounding issues. What you need to do is find if there is a ground connection that is there on the radio and try grounding the radio.
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