The Caribbean has always been synonymous with exoticism, strong signals over the ocean, and relentless pile-ups for radio amateurs. In just a few hours, this area will become the center of attention in the world ether thanks to a Polish expedition. From March 3 to 20, 2026 will be heard from the island Anguilla three call signs will be heard: VP2EAD, VP2ELX and VP2EWE.
This expedition is not just about making connections; it is a demonstration of technical skill and perseverance of the Polish amateur radio school. Let's take a look at the details of the expedition under the call signs VP2EAD, VP2ELX and VP2EWE.
Anguilla: DXCC entity with a distinctive flavor
Anguilla (VP2E) is a British overseas territory in the Lesser Antilles. For radio amateurs, it is a sought-after entity that, while not at the top of the Most Wanted List, is strategically located for signal propagation towards Europe, North America, and especially towards the Far East, which is also the main goal of this group.
Team of operators
The team composition is a balanced combination of long-standing experience from challenging DX expeditions and a modern approach to digital modes.
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VP2EWE (Janusz, SP9FIH): Janusz je meno, ktoré netreba v DX svete predstavovať. Má za sebou desiatky úspešných aktivácií z celého sveta. Jeho skúsenosti s logistikou a budovaním staníc v improvizovaných podmienkach sú pre úspech výpravy kľúčové.
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VP2ELX (Mariusz, SP7DPJ / M0PLX): Mariusz brings an international dimension and technical precision. He is known for his ability to work efficiently in challenging pile-ups.
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VP2EAD (Adrian, SQ2RAD): Adrian is the engine of modern operations. Although the team primarily focuses on SSB and FT8, colleagues humorously note that they hope for Adrian's 'leniency' if it comes to CW or RTTY, where he feels at home. At eighteen, he is the youngest member of the DX expedition.
Technical Equipment: Power and Antenna Challenge
Operating from the Caribbean sounds like a dream, but the reality on the ground is often complicated. The team brings several transceivers and power amplifiers with a power of approximately 300 – 400 W. This power is an ideal compromise between sufficient signal strength to break through the pile-up and the energy capabilities of the operating location.
Small QTH as a tactical puzzle
One of the biggest challenges of this expedition is the actual location of the operating station (QTH). Operators have indicated that the space is relatively small for comfortably setting up three independent workstations.
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Antenna Management: The team brings a wide range of antennas, but their final configuration and placement will be determined on-site. The goal is to minimize mutual interference between stations that will operate simultaneously on different bands.
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Interference: With three stations in a small space, the use of high-quality band pass filters will be crucial to prevent overloading the input circuits of the receivers.
Operational Strategy: Direction Far East
Although Anguilla will be 'noisy' on all bands, operators have clearly defined priorities.
1. Focus on the Far East (Japan, China, Korea)
Signal propagation from the Caribbean to Japan (JA) and surrounding countries is often a window that opens only for a short time. The VP2E team will actively monitor these windows and adjust their operating times accordingly. For stations from Japan, this will be a rare opportunity to obtain multi-band connections.
2. Australia and Europe
Europe (including Slovakia and the Czech Republic) will have very good chances of connections due to its geographical location, especially in the evening and nighttime hours. Australia (VK) and New Zealand (ZL) are almost 'antipodes' to the Caribbean, meaning that connections with them will require patience and monitoring of greyline propagation.
3. Modes: From SSB to FT8
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FT8 and FT4: Given the current phase of the solar cycle and the popularity of digital modes, FT8 will be the dominant mode for weak signal hunters.
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SSB: Lovers of traditional voice operation need not worry - pile-ups on SSB will be an integral part of every active peak.
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CW and RTTY: Although they are planned as supplementary, Adrian (SQ2RAD) will ensure that even the devotees of telegraphy are not left out.
Logistics and confirmation of connections (QSL)
For every DXCC hunter, a connection is only valuable when they have a QSL card or confirmation in their electronic logbook. The Polish team has set a fair and transparent policy:
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OQRS (Online QSL Request System): This is the preferred method. Through OQRS, you will be able to request a card directly to your home or through the amateur radio bureau. https://vp2.dxpeditions.org/online-logs/
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PZK QSL Bureau: Direct QSLs will be sent out via the PZK QSL service.
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LoTW: Uploading to the Logbook of the World system is already a standard in 2026, which the expedition fully supports.
Conclusion: Prepare your antennas!
The Polish expedition to Anguilla is proof that amateur radio is still about exploration and overcoming distances. Whether you are an experienced amateur radio operator with full equipment or a beginner with a low power station, brands VP2EAD, VP2ELX and VP2EWE will be your big challenge in March.
Follow the expedition's website for current chat information and photos directly from the scene. Propagation in March can be unpredictable, but that's what makes DXing so fascinating.
Good luck in the pile-up, friends! 73!