AD-25/CW — Wideband VHF Manpack Whip Antenna

Overview

The AD-25/CW is a family of wideband VHF whip antennas designed for reliable, high-performance operation with manpack radios. Covering the 30-108 MHz frequency range, these antennas are electrically optimized to perform consistently across various common deployment scenarios without needing any field tuning. The radiating element is built from a rugged and highly flexible steel multilayer tape, while a built-in passive tuning network is protected within a durable fibreglass housing. An integrated gooseneck ensures the antenna can be maintained in a vertical position for optimal performance, regardless of the radio's orientation.

Technical Summary

• Frequency Range: 30 – 108 MHz
• Antenna Type: Omnidirectional Whip
• Intended Platform: Manpack Radios
• Gain: < 0 dB
• Max RF Power: < 30 W
• Tuning: None required (passive internal network)
• Construction: Steel multilayer tape element, fibreglass housing, integrated gooseneck

Operational Use Cases

The AD-25/CW is engineered for tactical VHF communications where operator mobility and signal reliability are critical. It is electrically optimized for consistent performance whether the radio is carried on an operator's back, worn on the chest, or placed on the ground, making it suitable for a wide range of on-the-move and man-portable missions.

Deployment Environments

Designed as a manpack antenna, the AD-25/CW is built for demanding field conditions. Its construction features a rugged, flexible radiating element made of special steel multilayer tape and a protective fibreglass housing for its internal components, ensuring durability during tactical operations.

Performance Metrics

• Frequency Coverage: 30 MHz to 108 MHz
• Maximum Power Handling: Less than 30 Watts
• Gain: Less than 0 dB
• Operational Bandwidth: The antenna provides full coverage of its specified frequency range without requiring any user adjustment or tuning, ensuring immediate readiness and simplified operation.

Setup & Portability

This antenna is designed for rapid deployment and ease of use in portable applications. Its key portability features include:

• No Tuning Required: An internal passive network eliminates the need for field adjustments.
• Integrated Gooseneck: A flexible gooseneck section allows the operator to easily bend the antenna into a vertical position for optimal radiation, regardless of how the manpack radio is being carried.
• Flexible Radiator: The radiating element is made from a highly flexible steel tape, allowing it to bend without damage and reducing the risk of snagging.

Compatibility

The AD-25/CW antenna family is designed for use with manpack radios operating within the 30 to 108 MHz VHF frequency band. The product data notes that various models are available with different input connectors to ensure compatibility with a wide range of radio systems. Please consult the specific model's datasheet to verify the connector type.

FAQs

• What is AD-25/CW — Wideband VHF Manpack Whip Antenna used for? Based on the reviewed specs, it is categorized as Omni Antenna.
• What frequency bands are listed for AD-25/CW — Wideband VHF Manpack Whip Antenna? The reviewed product data identifies VHF frequency band coverage.
• What performance details are listed for AD-25/CW — Wideband VHF Manpack Whip Antenna? The reviewed product data lists gain: Less than 0 dB; power handling: Less than 30 W.
• What should be verified before specifying AD-25/CW — Wideband VHF Manpack Whip Antenna? Confirm exact performance limits, interfaces, accessories, and integration requirements against the supplier datasheet.