P5 "CW ONLY" & IOTA AS-197 PROJECT
P.S. This is NOT a solicitation for contributions or donations, but only an inquiry to obtain an idea as to the possibilities of achieving the minimum "threshold" amount set forth in the proposal to hopefully make this "Cultural & Humanitarian" endeavor also become a reality for P5 "CW ONLY" and first time activation of IOTA AS-197.
HISTORY...
During the past 6 years, I have had more than 50 cordial telephone conversations with D.P.R.K. personnel seeking official permission to operate from P5. Along with email proposals and discussions in this matter, substantial efforts have been made to obtain a P5 license.
For more than a year now I have now been working with an NGO Organization which is well respected in the D.P.R.K. as a result of Humanitarian work they have done in P5 for many years. I have personally donated several thousands of dollars to this organization and another NGO specifically for both Food and Medical related relief projects to the people in need within the D.P.R.K. Representatives from both organizations personally supervise the final delivery and distribution of agricultral, food and medical related items in the D.P.R.K. to ensure the integrity of the donation programs.
NEW DEVELOPMENTS...
For several months now my NGO contact and I have been discussing a possible new venue which would be mutually beneficial in helping to accomplish each of our objectives in the D.P.R.K.
A longstanding goal has been to combine the need for a "CW ONLY" P5 Expedition with the first time activation of at least one P5 IOTA "NEW ONE". I believe an opportunity now exists to combine these goals in conjunction with unique "Cultural" and "Humanitarian" objectives which have been formulated for review by D.P.R.K. Authorities. There is strong support from the NGO in this effort.
CLARIFICATION...
I need to make it very clear than I am *NOT* seeking any donations at this point, but rather only an indication of the level of potential contributions for the related "Humanitarian" purposes likely required in order for approval of this project and issuance of a P5 license.
Although I will be paying ALL my own expenses for the Expedition, a quite large "threshold" amount for the "Humanitarian" part of the proposal has been established which may be necessary for this P5 Project to succeed. NO future donations will come to me personally, but rather be directed to the very well-respected NGO specifically earmarked for the D.P.R.K. relief part of the P5 Project proposal AFTER the Expedition has concluded. There are some remaining details yet to be finalized.
THE CHALLENGE...
WRITTEN APPROVAL from at least four separate D.P.R.K. Ministries and entities (including the D.P.R.K. Military) is necessary in order for this to happen. Based upon a detailed review of several previous P5 Expedition attempts that did not result in getting on the air, a key objective in this matter is to minimize potential failure upon arrival at the final destination in P5.
It has been a very long 6 years thus far, but I believe the time has finally come to "fish or cut bait". I've espoused that "Ham Radio Operators" are known to be generous contributors to Humanitarian causes. Being able to provide an indicator of this to the D.P.R.K. Authorities up-front can potentially make the difference between another "No", or finally "YES" in obtaining the desired P5 license.
Another purpose of this Expedition is to hopefully further "open the door" for a future Multi-Operator venue in P5, as well as activation
of the other 3 remaining P5 IOTA "NEW ONES".
PREPARATION...
My FIVE 2011 IOTA Expeditions to NA-041, NA-066, NA-091, NA-184 and NA-242 ("NEW ONE") were also used to fine-tune operational matters as well as test antenna designs for P5 use in a small venue footprint most likely acceptable to the D.P.R.K. Authorities. The plan is 4 days QRV with 200 watt radios and "Verticals near salt water". I have all the radio, antenna and computer equipment necessary for this expedition, including two KPA500 amplifiers (approval for use of the amps in P5 is questionable at this time).
Thanks very much in advance for your possible participation in the Humanitarian aspect of this P5 "CW ONLY" and IOTA AS-197 Project.
73...
Rick, K6VVA * The Locust
FOC (First Class CW Operators' Club)
NCCC Co-Founding Member