VU4R
DXPEDITION
THE ROAD TO SEANET
VU4R - Andaman Islands
VU4R DXpedition 2026
VU4R is launching a multi-phase activation of the Andaman Islands! Starting with a July Preparatory Trip for the IOTA Contest, followed by the historic 49th SEANET Convention (VU4SEA) in December 2026.
Phase 1: July Prep Trip
July 22nd – 26th, 2026. Focused on logistics, planning, and RSGB IOTA Contest operation (SSB & Digital only).
Phase 2: SEANET (VU4SEA) Main Event
December 17th – 30th, 2026. Hosting the 49th SEANET Convention (VU4SEA) and a full-scale international DXpedition.
SSB & FT8 Activation
Operating from the pristine beaches of the Andaman Islands, we will be active on SSB and FT8 modes, ensuring maximum reach and opportunity for the global DX community.
Meet The Team
Sarath
Youth Empowerment Program
We are looking for the next generation of DXers! Are you a licensed Indian ham aged 19-25?
Experienced Contesters
If you have already participated in recent radio contests, we want to hear from you. Contact our Team Leader to share your experience and apply for team membership.
Aspiring Members
New to contesting? No problem! Operate in the next 4 upcoming contests, document your progress, and share your results with us to earn your spot on the team.
Equipment Strategy
The activation will utilize a high-performance single station setup optimized for SSB and FT8 modes. Our goal is to maintain a consistent presence on the bands and provide as many contacts as possible from AS-001.
Main Station: SSB & FT8
- ICOM IC-7300 Transceiver
- RM Italy 300 Watt Amplifier
- DX Commander Multi-band Vertical
- Laptop computer with WSJT-X
- High-quality bandpass filters
- Portable power solution
Frequencies & Modes
| Band | Fox Freq (MHz) |
|---|---|
| 80m | 3.590 |
| 40m | 7.090 |
| 30m | 10.136 |
| 20m | 14.090 |
| 17m | 18.110 |
| 15m | 21.090 |
| 12m | 24.090 |
| 10m | 28.090 |
TX: Hounds transmit on listed frequencies.
RX: Fox receives on same frequencies, >1000 Hz.
Sequence: Standard FT8 protocol.
Complete: QSO is complete when receiving "73" from Fox.
| Band | Frequency (MHz) |
|---|---|
| 80m | 3.690 |
| 40m | 7.160 |
| 20m | 14.260 |
| 17m | 18.130 |
| 15m | 21.260 |
| 12m | 24.955 |
| 10m | 28.485 |
Split Mode: Always listen UP 5-10 Khz from TX frequency. Spread out calls.
40m USA: Listening specifically on 7.160 Khz. TX standard 40m frequencies.
Regulation: Indian regulations restrict TX to 7.200 Khz and below.
QSL Management
QSL Manager: Sarath, VU2RS
All QSL requests will be handled directly by the operator.
For QSL inquiries and confirmations, please contact Sarath directly via email or the OQRS system (if available).
Direct QSLs are preferred.
Notice: I do not accept the Indian QSL Bureau.
Sarath - VU2RS
Empower the VU4R Mission
Activating the Andaman Islands (AS-001) is a significant technical and financial undertaking. Your contributions directly support the deployment of high-performance antennas, portable power solutions, and the complex logistics required to bring this rare location to the global DX community. Every donation helps ensure the success of this mission. Join us in making history from AS-001.
For urgent inquiries regarding the expedition, contact Team Leader Sarath (VU2RS):