Tacsat Antenna, UHF Satcom Tactical X-Wing

Leadtime: Stock to 2 weeks ARO

UC-3004-481 Data

Tacsat Antenna Description

Tacsat Antenna model UC-3004-481 is a lightweight, low observable, compact UHF Satcom antenna system. The polarization of this Tactical X-Wing is Circular, intended for communications via UHF MUOS satellites (DAMA/IW/WCDMA). When used on its high gain mount, it can be utilized with UFO and earlier satellites. Its radiating elements are flexible and difficult to see at a distance, from any view angle. The small Tacsat Antenna can be stowed in a very small pouch, or webbed onto a backpack.

UHF Line of Sight communications can be maintained with this antenna. When operated as an intra-team aerial, its circular polarization offers natural diversity, reducing the intensity of multipath. Variants for other operating frequencies may be requested as indicated below.

Key features of this tactical antenna

• Small and Lightweight, stows in a typical trouser/jeans pocket, or a small pouch (4"/10 cm x 4"/10 cm)
• Difficult to see/spot at a distance
• Quick deployment (take out of pocket/pouch, connect to cable and you are ready to communicate)
• Modular - one antenna can serve multiple purposes/platforms
• Compatible with all the accessories of our UC-3004-381 Mini-UHF X-Wing antennas, which include
  • High Gain Mount (ACC-0005)*, doubles the gain (adds 3 dB) when installed on a metal surface larger than 28"/70 cm x 28"/70 cm, or on the ground
  • Suction Cup Mount (ACC-0005 + ACC-0002), to attach to non-metal and metal, smooth surfaces
  • Magnetic/Mag Mount (ACC-0005 + ACC-0003 or ACC-0001), to attach to ferrous metal surfaces
  • Bolt-on, AV 2090-4 hole pattern compatible, direct Vehicle Mount (ACC-0005 + ACC-0008)
  • Stake/Ground Mount (ACC-0005 + ACC-0013)
  • Standard Camera Tripod (ACC-0005)
  • Make your own bracket - all you need is a 1/4" (6.4 mm) hole
• Antenna elements may be webbed onto a backpack for tactical, on-foot COTM (Communications-On-The-Move)
• In its normal orientation (connector pointing towards the ground), the UC-3004-481R is RHC Polarized (Right Hand), flip it upside down (connector points to the sky) and polarization will change to LHCP (Left Hand)

X-Wing Polarization Note

Additional Capabilities

For on-foot (dismounted) satellite access for infantry/special operations, you might prefer our UC-3004-581 Smart Spider(TM) Antenna instead. It has a built-in LNA that kicks-in during DAMA/IW receive, to boost downlink signals, providing between +7 dBic to over +13 dBic effective RX gain, depending on the radio used.

Further information about the UC-3004-481R Antenna, including additional capabilities, expanded features and customized variants, is available per special request. Call us to discuss your requirements at 954-345-5000. Alternatively, email us at sales@antennas.us .

Technical Specifications

• Operating Frequencies:
  • Original model, UC-3004-481R: 243-318 MHz
  • Rev A model, UC-3004-481AR: 243-380 MHz (useable 225-400 MHz)
• Polarization: Circular (CP) [model -481R_ is RHCP]
• Axial Ratio: 2 dB
• Maximum Power: 50 Watts CW (Continuous operation)
• Gain (peak):
  • Directly mounted on connector: 0 dBic
    Elevation pattern (NO Ground Plane)
  • On High Gain mount ACC-0005, +4 dBic*
• Azimuthal Coverage: Omnidirectional
• Nominal Impedance: 50 Ohms (RF), short circuit (DC)
• Maximum VSWR: 3.0 (under 2.5 typical) VSWR Plot - Rev A model VSWR Plot
• Connector Interface: Type N, female
• Operating Temperature: -40C to +85C (-40F to 185F)
• Dimensions: 14 in tip-tip, can fit in a 10 cm x 10 cm (4 in x 4 in) pouch (not supplied)
• Weight: 130 g (0.28 lbs)

This Tactical X-Wing is compatible with the following Accessories:

• 12 cm (5") Magnetic Base
• 7 cm (3") Magnetic Base
• 9 cm (3.5") Suction Cup

Recommended Cable Assemblies

• LMR240 - use for cables longer than 10 meters (30 ft)
• LMR195 - use for cables shorter than 10 meters (30 ft)