Update April 27, 2026:  We are in the final countdown! Team Mumbai, led by Suyog, VU2THF, has completed preliminary site visits and final arrangements on Arnala Island to ensure everything is ready for the activation.

Arrival & Setup Schedule:

    April 30, 2026 (Afternoon): The first batch of the team will arrive on the island to begin site preparation.
    May 1, 2026 (Early Hours): The second team from Hyderabad, Kozhikode teams will reach the island to finalize antenna setups and station installations.

All flight tickets are booked, and we are happy to report that all materials and equipment have reached Mumbai this evening. The equipment will be transferred to Arnala Island on the afternoon of April 30th.

 Station Strategy:

Our focus remains on maximizing coverage irrespective of conditions. We will maintain three dedicated stations:

     Station 1: SSB
     Station 2: CW
     Station 3: FT8

Post-Activation & QSL Timeline:

We aim to give as many contacts as possible. Please be patient regarding log uploads; these will be handled only after the activation.

    May 5: Logs will be shared with the QSL Manager.
    May 8: QSL card design will be unveiled.
    May 10: Cards will be sent for printing.

QSL Info: Express LoTW and OQRS will be available initially. Free LoTW will be announced at a later date.

Thank you for your support and patience. We'll see you on the airwaves!

Please visit www.vu2rs.com/au2m for more news and previous articles. 

for any support :- our Paypal: info@sreetek.com

73,Team AU2M
DX India Foundation

Update April 5, 2026:  The AU2M team is super excited to announce that we're finally going live from the stunning Arnala Island (AS-169) for the IOTA Reactivation, happening from May 1, 2026, 06:00 hrs UTC to May 3, 2026, 23:59 hrs UTC!

Last year's plans were unfortunately scrapped due to heavy rains and some unavoidable circumstances, but we're back and ready to make this one count! Our crack team of operators, led by Sarath (VU2RS), Adersh (VU24DX), Anil (VU3DXA), Pramod (VU3OPD), and the Mumbai squad - Suyog (VU2THF), Anand (VU3YAY), and Suyog (VU3OHF) - are geared up to give you an unforgettable experience.

But that's not all! We'll also be conducting some cool demos and awareness sessions on the island to spark interest in amateur radio among the locals. We're passionate about sharing our hobby with others and inspiring the next generation of hams.

"We're thrilled to be reactivating Arnala Island and can't wait to share the magic of ham radio with everyone," said Sarath, VU2RS, team leader.
Huge thanks to the Radio Society of Great Britain and Chilton DX Club (CDXC) for their generous support, and shoutout to VOACAP for helping us with propagation links (more on that soon!).
We're still on the lookout for amplifiers and band-pass filters, so if you can help, that'd be amazing! Any donation above $25 will be acknowledged on our website, and you can contribute via PayPal to info@sreetek.com.

Update April 2, 2026:  I am pleased to provide an update regarding the upcoming AU2M IOTA Arnala (AS-161) activation with the Mumbai, Maharashtra IOTA Group, scheduled for May 1, 2026, through May 3, 2026. All necessary permits have been secured and final arrangements are now in place.

The team is fully prepared for the operation. The equipment was shipped today from Calicut to Hyderabad, where it will be repacked and forwarded to Mumbai within the coming week. A primary goal of this activation is to raise awareness among the local community about amateur radio and the technologies involved, with the hope of inspiring a new generation of radio enthusiasts.

Regarding our technical requirements, we are still seeking Band Pass Filters and Amplifiers for this activation. If you have any leads or are able to provide assistance with this equipment, please let us know as it would be greatly appreciated.

Additionally, I would like to provide an update on the AU7RS QSL cards. The cards have been dispatched to Charles, M0OXO, who expects to receive them within the next day or two. He will begin processing requests shortly after their arrival. For QSL confirmations, please contact Charles via OQRS or Express LoTW. Please note that free LoTW confirmations will be available after one year.

Thank you for your continued support.

Best regards, Sarath VU2RS

Update March 19, 2026:  Estimated Actual ON-AIR QRV:
AU2M AS-169 START: May 1, 2026, 06:00 UTC
AU2M AS-169 END: May 3, 2026, 13:00 UTC

The team will be operating from a temple premises right on the shore using three stations across SSB, CW, FT8, FT4, and FT2 modes. Our setup includes three multi-band verticals, a 40m monoband vertical, and a 12m VDA, all powered by two generators for round-the-clock operation.

Update March 5, 2026:  The AU2M team, led by Sarath, VU2RS, is gearing up for a highly anticipated DXpedition to Arnala Island (AS-169), Maharashtra, from May 1-3, 2026. The team includes experienced operators:
- Adersh, VU24DX
- Pramod, VU3OPD
- Anil, VU3DXA
- Suyog, VU2THA (Mumbai)
- Suyog, VU3OHF (Mumbai)
- Anand, VU3YAY (Mumbai)
- Charles, M0OXO (QSL Manager)

*Local Support and Collaboration:*
The AU2M team is working closely with local radio enthusiasts and clubs to promote DXing and IOTA in the region. We're excited to involve local operators and youth in our activities, including:
- Suyog, VU2THA, Suyog, VU3OHF, and Anand, VU3YAY, providing local support in Mumbai
- Collaborating with local radio clubs to promote DXing and IOTA
- Conducting hands-on sessions and workshops to empower youth and local enthusiasts

*YOTA Workshop Highlights:*
Our YOTA Workshop in Chirala, Andhra Pradesh, on April 18, 2026, will cover:
- Setting up antennas and stations
- Working roasters and DXing techniques
- IOTA and contesting insights
Open to youth members with licenses <6 months and <23 years.

*AU7RS Update:*
LoTW has been uploaded for AU7RS sponsors, donors, and Express LoTW requests from our Agatti Island, Lakshadweep DXpedition. QSL cards are ready to ship, including one headed to London, handled by QSL Manager Charles, M0OXO.

*Support Request:*
We're seeking support to cover critical expenses:
- Genesis and fuel for round-the-clock operations
- Procurement of long-pending band pass filters
Your contribution will help ensure a successful DXpedition. Donors can opt for OQRS ($8) or Express LoTW ($5). You can send contributions via PayPal to info@sreetek.com.

Visit http://www.vu2rs.com/au2m for updates, frequency schedules, and donation details.

Update February 24, 2026: I am happy to inform you that, through local collaboration in Mumbai, we will be reactivating the Arnala IOTA Activation.

As you may recall, this activation was postponed last year due to heavy rains, which unfortunately resulted in significant financial losses regarding logistics transportation and flight tickets. Following many requests, we have decided to move forward with the reactivation of Arnala IOTA from May 1st, 2026, to May 3rd, 2026.

We look forward to your participation.

Best regards,

Sarath VU2RS

Update May 26, 2025: It is with deep regret that we need to inform you that the AU2M IOTA reactivation, scheduled for May 28-31, 2025, has been postponed due to unforeseen weather conditions.

Heavy rains and a red alert for the next 48 hours in Mumbai and other parts of South and Western India have made it impossible for us to proceed with the activation. The early onset of monsoon and depression in the region has forced us to prioritize safety.

Despite having booked flight tickets and dispatched equipment to Mumbai in advance, we now face significant losses due to flight ticket cancellations, logistics, and additional expenses.

The major challenge is the rough sea and high tide, which makes it difficult for our small boat to operate safely. We are not allowed to proceed under these conditions.

*Next Steps:*

We will provide updates when the situation improves, and we will need to restart the planning process from scratch, including obtaining necessary permissions.

We assure you that we will reactivate AU2M as soon as possible, potentially coinciding with other IOTA activations in the Western region.

Thank you for your understanding and support.

Sarath VU2RS

Update May 19, 2025: Get ready for an exciting opportunity! A team of talented radio operators, led by experienced operators Sarath (VU2RS), Adersh (VU3WEW), Giresh (VU3GDS), Anil (VU3DXA), Renju Gopi (VU3TPW), Jatin Shah (VU2KTW), and Huzeha Merchant (VU2HIT), is gearing up to reactivate Arnala Island (AS-169), Maharashtra, from May 28th to 31st, 2025.

Operation Details:

- Antennas: Two beams (10m/6m and Hex Beam) and one Delta Loop antenna, along with three verticals for three stations.
- 6m and QO-100: Dedicated operations with a beam and Delta Loop for 6m, and a separate QO-100 setup to activate the grid and demonstrate its use in emergency situations.
- Schedule: The team will arrive on May 28th, set up stations, and start operating at 12:00Z. The operation will conclude on May 31st at 23:59Z.

Support and Donations:

- The team is seeking support for amplifiers and band-pass filters. Donations are welcome, and contributors will be acknowledged on the website.
- PayPal: mailto:info@sreetek.com (please send as "Family and Friends" to avoid extra fees). 

Important Update: New PayPal Details

We're excited to announce that we've switched from our Indian PayPal to a US-based PayPal account! This change will help us save over 10% + additional Indian taxes.

Donation Details:

- To support our IOTA activation, please send your donations via our website using the PayPal button.
- PayPal: mailto:info@sreetek.com

Your support means a lot to us! Thank you for helping us make this activation a success.

- Donations of $100 or more from individuals, clubs, or foundations will be acknowledged on QSL cards.

Team and Operations:

- The team consists of experienced operators, with dedicated stations for CW, SSB, digital, and QO-100 operations.
- They will use WSJT Fox-Hound mode only, with no automated contacts.

Don't miss this opportunity to make new IOTA contacts! Stay tuned for propagation analysis and updates on the team's website. Our website: https://vu2rs.com/au2m/

QSL Manager: Charles, M0OXO

We're pleased to announce that Charles, M0OXO, will be handling QSL cards for our upcoming Arnala Island (AS-169) IOTA activation. Charles has already demonstrated his expertise in managing QSLs for our team during our previous Sacrifice Rock IOTA operation.

Donations and OQRS:

- All donations will be accepted for OQRS (Online QSL Request System).
- Prior to initiating OQRS, donations sent to the team will be given credit for OQRS, ensuring that contributors receive their QSL cards efficiently.

Thank you, Charles, for your support and expertise in handling our QSLs!

Thanks & Regards
Sara, VU2RS

Update May 10, 2025: We're thrilled to announce that our team, led by Sarath (VU2RS), Adersh (VU3WEW), Girish (VU3GDS), Anil (VU3DXA), Renju Gopi (VU3TPW), Jatin Shah (VU2KTW), and Huzefa Merchant (VU2HIT), is reactivating Arnala Island (AS-169), Maharashtra, from May 28th to 31st, 2025, with the callsign AU2M.

Operation Details:

- We'll be active on various bands, including 40m to 6m, with two beams and two verticals, and three stations.
- We'll also be operating on 6M and QO-100 Satellite.
- Shortly, we'll share propagation analysis to help you reach us.

Support Our Expedition!

We're seeking help to procure essential equipment, including amplifiers and band-pass filters. Your contribution will make a significant difference. We've updated our website with a US PayPal account, reducing charges by almost 10%. Please use the "Family and Friends" option to support us. Every dollar counts, and we'll acknowledge your support on our website.

Donation Details:

- PayPal address: info@sreetek.com
- Donations above $100 will be acknowledged on our QSL card with your name and call sign.
- All donors will receive OQRS (Online QSL Request System) without additional payment.

Our Goal:

We aim to activate all IOTAs in India before the sunspot activity decreases, providing opportunities for DXers and IOTA chasers worldwide. Your support will help us achieve this goal.

Thank you for your enthusiasm and support!

Update April 24, 2025: The team has received the green signal from W.P.C, Government of India, and secured all necessary local permits. Local hams Huzefa Merchant (VU2HIT) and Jatin Shah (VU2KTW) have been instrumental in setting up arrangements on the island.

Update March 7, 2025: I'm thrilled to share the latest update on our AU2M Arnala IOTA Reactivation project! Our license application has been successful, and we're expecting to receive it within the next couple of days.

Our team is super excited to set up three stations, featuring a hex beam, 10m beam, 6m beam, and two vertical antennas. We've had numerous requests for 6m operations, and we'll be monitoring and active on this band when conditions permit.

We'll be operating on CW, SSB, and Digital modes, but we'll adjust our modes based on propagation conditions to maximize contacts. Our goal is to make as many contacts as possible with the amateur radio community.

To take our setup to the next level, we're working hard to include at least two amplifiers. Hopefully, we'll also receive support for band-pass filters, which will significantly improve our station's performance.

We're grateful for the support we've received so far and invite you to be a part of our adventure! If you'd like to contribute or stay updated on our progress, please visit our website: https://vu2rs.com/au2m or email me directly at sara@vu2rs.com.

Stay tuned for more updates on our AU2M Arnala IOTA Reactivation project!

73, Sarath VU2RS

Update February 25, 2025: DX India Foundation announce they have just completed their preliminary visit, and are excited to share their setup. They’ll have three beams and one vertical antenna, with a power output of 100 watts (unfortunately, they couldn’t get hands on any amplifiers). They say stay tuned for more updates from the team, including photos, stories, frequency schedules, and propagation reports. 

We're super stoked to announce that the DX India Foundation is heading back to Arnala IOTA (AS-169) from May 29th to June 1st, 2025! This time, we'll be operating under the callsign AU2M (Proposed Callsign).

This is a rare opportunity for IOTA enthusiasts around the world to log this highly sought-after entity, currently the most wanted IOTA in India!
Our team has worked tirelessly to make this activation happen, and we can't wait to share it with you!

Our Website address: https://vu2rs.com/au2m

Meet the Dream Team!

We're proud to have an experienced team on board, including:

 * Sarath, VU2RS
 * Aderesh, VU3WEW
 * Anil, VU3DXA
 * Renju, VU3TPW
 * Girish, VU3GDS
 * Huzefa Merchant, VU2HIT (Local Support)
 * Jatin Shah, VU2KWJ (Local Support)

As part of our mission to train and mentor other radio hams, we invited Huzefa and Jatin to join us on this adventure.

Here's the Lowdown on QSL and Donations:

To help cover our costs, we've set the OQRS fee at 10 USDs and Express LoTW at 5 USDs.

“We want to be transparent – we're not in this to make a profit,” says Sarath. “Any support you give us will go directly towards funding future DXpeditions and building a contest station in India.”

QSL Manager: Charles, M0OXO (Direct and Bureau QSLs accepted)

To make a donation, please use the PayPal link: sarath@lven.in

Important: After making your PayPal payment, kindly fill out this Google Form, This will help us track our donors and easily share information with our QSL manager.

We've faced some tough challenges in the past, but we're determined to make this activation a success!

“We invite you to join us on this adventure,” says Sarath. “Your support means the world to us, and we're grateful for your help in promoting amateur radio in India and Asia.”

Get in Touch:

For more info, check out our website (link unavailable) or drop us an email at (sara@vu2rs.com).

Thanks for being part of our community!

73, DX India Foundation