APT-1327-3

The APT-1327-3 is a compact, high-gain tactical microwave antenna specifically optimized for the NATO Band III+ (1350–2700 MHz) spectrum. With its 0.9-meter (3-foot) diameter, it serves as the highly portable counterpart to the larger 1.2-meter models, offering a superior balance of gain and mobility for rapid-response tactical teams.

Performance Features

The APT-1327-3 provides versatile wideband performance, delivering an isotropic gain that scales from 18 dBi at the low band to 24 dBi at the high end. This ensures a robust link across the entire NATO Band III+ frequency range. A key operational advantage is its "single-operator" design; the antenna features a quick-fastener system for the primary feed horn, allowing for immediate assembly in the field. Furthermore, the mounting hardware is engineered for flexibility, enabling operators to switch between vertical and horizontal polarization on-the-fly to optimize signal reception or avoid interference.

Durability and Construction

Built to withstand the most demanding environmental conditions, the antenna is fabricated from 6063T6 ultra-corrosion-resistant architectural aluminum alloy. To ensure long-term structural integrity, it is finished with an army green anti-corrosive powder coating and utilizes marine-grade stainless steel for all fasteners. A standout protective feature is the radome-sealed dipole feed, where the brass radiating elements are completely enclosed in a high-impact ABS housing to prevent moisture ingress and mechanical damage. It is fully MIL-STD-810G compliant, surviving temperatures from -40°C to +80°C and wind speeds up to 200 Km/Hr.

Operational Efficiency

Efficiency in the APT-1327-3 is defined by its ability to maintain a clean signal in crowded spectrums. With a 25 dB Front-to-Back ratio and 25 dB Cross-Polarization discrimination, it effectively isolates the intended link from co-sited interference. The integrated D.C. Ground path provides a low-resistance discharge for lightning protection and static noise immunity, ensuring the safety of connected radio relay equipment. Weighing only 9 Kgs, it is the premier choice for tactical units requiring high-capacity microwave backhaul without the logistical burden of heavy equipment.

The APT-1327-3 is a precision-engineered microwave relay solution that balances high-gain performance with extreme portability. Designed for NATO Band III+ (1350–2700 MHz), its 0.9-meter (3-foot) aperture provides the necessary link margin for long-distance tactical data trunks while remaining a single-operator system.

Detailed Technical Features - RF & Electrical Performance

• Ultra-Wideband Spectrum Coverage: Engineered to cover the complete 1350–2700 MHz range. This eliminates the need for multiple antennas, allowing tactical units to jump frequencies across the entire Band III+ without hardware changes.
• Progressive Isotropic Gain: The antenna efficiency scales with frequency to provide optimal link stability:
  • 18 dBi at the Low Band (1350 MHz)
  • 21 dBi at the Mid Band (2000 MHz)
  • 24 dBi at the High Band (2700 MHz)
• Precision Directivity: Concentrates RF energy into a narrow half-power beam-width that tightens from 17° to 8° as frequency increases, ensuring a secure, high-intensity point-to-point link.
• Advanced Signal Isolation:
  • 25 dB Front-to-Back Ratio: Minimizes signal leakage to the rear, essential for co-siting multiple antennas on a single tactical mast.
  • 25 dB Cross-Polarization Discrimination: Ensures the antenna effectively rejects signals from opposite polarizations, reducing interference in dense RF environments.
• High Power & Protection:
  • 150 Watts CW: Robust capacity for high-power tactical radio relay systems.
  • D.C. Grounding: The radiating element is internally grounded to provide a low-resistance path for lightning discharge and to bleed off static noise for a higher Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR).

Detailed Mechanical Features - Structural Integrity & Materials

• Architectural Grade Reflector: The 0.9-meter (3-foot) grid dish is fabricated from 6063T6 aluminum alloy, offering an elite strength-to-weight ratio and natural resistance to stress-corrosion.
• Aerodynamic Grid Construction: * Support Rim: 25.4mm (1") outer diameter aluminum tube for rigid structural support.
  • Grid Members: 12.7mm (1/2") outer diameter aluminum tubes, spaced to allow high-velocity winds to pass through the reflector.
• Radome-Protected Feed: The primary dipole feed is completely sealed inside a high-impact ABS housing (Radome). This prevents moisture, dust, and ice buildup from affecting the focal point, ensuring 100% electrical efficiency in all weather.
• Marine-Grade Hardware: All assembly fasteners (screws, nuts, bolts) are manufactured from Type 316 Stainless Steel to prevent oxidation in high-salinity coastal theaters.

Tactical Versatility & Logistics

• Single-Operator Deployment: With a gross weight of only 9 Kgs, the antenna is designed for rapid manual handling. The quick-fastener system allows for the tool-free attachment of the feed horn to the reflector center.
• Field-Adjustable Polarization: The mounting arrangement at the rear of the antenna permits a 90-degree rotation to switch between Vertical and Horizontal polarization in the field.
• Heavy-Duty Mounting: Designed to clamp onto any standard vertical mast with a diameter ranging from 38 mm to 52 mm (1.5 to 2 inches).
• Stealth Finish: Coated in a matte Army Green epoxy-based anti-corrosive powder paint that provides a low visual and infrared signature.

Environmental Resilience (MIL-STD-810G)

The APT-1327-3 is fully ruggedized to ensure mission-critical communication remains uninterrupted:

• Hurricane-Force Stability: Structurally rated to survive wind speeds up to 200 Km/Hr.
• Extreme Thermal Range: Operational from -30°C to +70°C and capable of being stored from -40°C to +80°C.
• Global Compliance: Tested to MIL-STD-810G for:
  • Salt Fog (Method 509.5): Essential for naval and shoreline deployments.
  • Blown Rain (Method 506.5): Ensures zero water ingress into the feed during heavy monsoons.
  • Shock & Vibration (Method 516.6): Ruggedized for transport in tactical ground vehicles and rough handling.

EU Environmental & Safety Compliances

To meet international regulatory and environmental safety standards for global deployment, the antenna adheres to the following:

• RoHS Compliant: Restricted use of hazardous substances (Lead, Mercury, Cadmium, etc.) in all electronic components and solder joints.
• REACH Compliant: Ensures all chemical substances used in the fiberglass radome are registered and safe for human health and the environment.
• WEEE Directive: Designed for high-end lifecycle management with recyclable aluminum and copper materials, facilitating sustainable disposal.
• CE Mark: Fully compliant with EU safety, health, and environmental protection requirements.

Key Advantages

• Rapid Deployment: The lightweight 9 Kg design and quick-fastener assembly allow a single person to establish a 24 dBi link in minutes.
• Hurricane-Force Stability: Rated for 200 Km/Hr wind speeds, ensuring the communication link remains active during severe storms.
• Maintenance-Free Life Cycle: 316-grade stainless steel and epoxy coating prevent corrosion in salt-air coastal environments.
• Multiband Versatility: Covers the entire 1.35–2.7 GHz range, reducing the need to carry multiple antennas for different sub-bands.

Key Applications

• Mobile Tactical Relay: Ideal for connecting forward-deployed units to regional command hubs.
• Ground-to-Air Microwave Links: Used in controlling UAVs or receiving high-bandwidth sensor data from aerial platforms.
• Disaster Response Communications: Quickly establishes high-speed wireless bridges to replace damaged terrestrial infrastructure.
• Coastal & Border Monitoring: Provides a secure, high-gain data relay for remote surveillance cameras and radar systems.