Glad to say that the German DX Foundation, SP DX Club and Swiss DX Foundation have recently joined the ranks of my expedition sponsors with generous grants, as well as the Buddipole company, which provides spare parts for the antennas. I sincerely thank them for their significant support.
3D2JK - IOTA expedition to Lakeba Island OC-095
This is SP5APW's expedition to Lakeba Island (OC-095). The callsign assigned to the expedition by TAF is 3D2JK.
Lakeba Island is the rarest IOTA reference in Fiji belonging to the top 10% of the world-wide most wanted references. The last activation of OC-095 was carried out over 20 years ago, in 2004 and currently this reference is in demand by 87% of the IOTA chasers.
27 March 2026
18 March 2026
Import permits
I have applied for the missing Fijian import permit for the MLA 300 amplifier, and I hope to receive it this week. So, there shouldn't be any problems getting the amplifier. Unfortunately, the amplifier isn't performing as expected. I have run tests with a dummy load and can now report that 300 W is not achievable on frequencies 14-28 MHz.
I've managed to achieve a maximum of 200-220 W on these bands. While the amplifier probably won't help as much on SSB as I'd like, it can also be used on FT8, which will likely improve my signal in that mode.
I would like to thank Antoine 3D2AG for his kind assistance in contacting TAF. Without this assistance, the permit might not have been issued in time.
08 March 2026
Grants received
I'm pleased to announce that IOTA Ltd. and CDXC have become sponsors of the 3D2JK operation. Their generous donations helped me purchase an RM MLA300 linear amplifier. I'll be using it primarily for SSB transmissions. Because this amplifier requires a well-matched antenna, I've also decided to bring along an MFJ antenna tuner.
The current situation in the Middle East, with its airspace closures and travel disruptions, has forced me to change my route. Instead of flying via Japan, I'll be flying via the United States. Unfortunately, this incurs additional costs. Therefore, your kind donations are still welcome.
24 February 2026
Propagation charts
I am delighted to inform you that Jari OH6BG was kind enough to prepare VOACAP propagation charts for my activity.
The charts are available on https://www.voacap.com/dx/3d2jk/ .
The charts are available on https://www.voacap.com/dx/3d2jk/ .
17 February 2026
Internet available
Good news for me and for you! There is a cellular internet on Lakeba working in the village. I am also invited to use someone's Starlink from time to time. It means that Clublog uploads will be possible.
I have agreed to rent a power generator too. It should help as standard hours of electricity are from 6am till 10pm with a break between 1pm - 2pm. The local time on Lakeba is GMT+12.
16 February 2026
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