diff --git a/libraries/AP_RCProtocol/AP_RCProtocol.h b/libraries/AP_RCProtocol/AP_RCProtocol.h
index aa5a062362..f7e6916f2d 100644
--- a/libraries/AP_RCProtocol/AP_RCProtocol.h
+++ b/libraries/AP_RCProtocol/AP_RCProtocol.h
@@ -124,6 +124,7 @@ public:
 
     // add a UART for RCIN
     void add_uart(AP_HAL::UARTDriver* uart);
+    bool has_uart() const { return added.uart != nullptr; }
 
 #ifdef IOMCU_FW
     // set allowed RC protocols