Update June 8, 2026: From June 8 to 14, 2026, I will be active from the Maldives with the special callsign 8Q7ML , in a light, portable operation and in vacation mode.

The activity will take place from Embudu Island , a small paradise in the Indian Ocean which, in addition to beach, sun and incredible landscapes, will be my portable amateur radio station for a few days.

A DXpedition in vacation format
This won't be a large DX expedition with multiple operators, big antennas, or high-power stations. It will be a simple, personal, and portable operation, combining a family vacation with amateur radio.

The idea is to enjoy the experience, test the equipment in real travel conditions and, of course, try to get 8Q7ML airborne for all the colleagues who want to add the Maldives to their log.

The activity will depend on several factors: propagation, weather, available time, the exact location for installing the antenna, and local conditions. Therefore, the operation will be flexible, without fixed schedules, but with a strong desire to make contacts.

Expected equipment
For this activation I will bring a compact and easy-to-transport station:

    Transceiver: Yaesu FTX-1 Field
    Power: between 6 and 10 W
    Antenna: Buddistick PRO Deluxe
    Bands: from 20 to 6 meters, depending on propagation
    Modes: mainly FT8 and some SSB if conditions permit

Since this is a low-power operation, most activity will likely be on FT8 , as this mode offers an excellent opportunity to make contacts even under modest conditions. However, I will also attempt to operate on SSB when propagation and noise permit.

QTH and operation
My planned QTH will be Embudu Island, Maldives . From there I will try to be active on the most favorable bands, especially between 20 and 10 meters, without ruling out 6 meters if an interesting opening appears.

As with any portable operation from an island, there will be challenges: humidity, sand, limited space, transporting equipment, power supply, and the need to assemble and disassemble the station in a practical and safe manner. But that's precisely part of the adventure.

QSL and tracking
The QSL card will be available upon request via email (QRZ.COM)

I will also be sharing the preparation, equipment, and details of the activity on my YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@RADIOBUNKER73                                                          https://youtu.be/-UvgQxALKeI

If the internet connection allows, I will try to post updates during the activity to let you know when I'm on air.

An experience to share
For me, this activation represents a perfect blend of travel, radio, portable experimentation, and the DX spirit. It's not just about adding contacts to the log, but also about experiencing operating from a special location with a simple, realistic station, proving that you don't always need a large setup to enjoy Dxing.

I hope to hear from many colleagues in the bands.
See you at the pile-up.

73, Ivan Matias Leitner 8Q7ML

Ivan, LU8MIL, will be QRV as 8Q7ML from Embudu Island, Maldives, on June 7–14, 2026. Activity will be holiday style on the 20–6 meters, possible 40 meters, using FT8 and SSB.

No more information available so far.