Special Event Station: Able Archer ’83 – W3A
Sussex County, Delaware – This November, history enthusiasts and amateur radio operators alike will have a unique opportunity to participate in a special event station commemorating the historic Able Archer 83 exercise. The event, known as Able Archer 2024, will run from 1 November 2024 at 0000 hrs UTC through 14 November 2024 at 2359 hrs UTC, with a primary focus on the weekend of 8 November 2024 through 10 November 2024.
Able Archer 83 was a NATO military exercise conducted in November 1983 that simulated a period of conflict escalation, culminating in a simulated DEFCON 1 coordinated nuclear attack. The realistic nature of the exercise, coupled with heightened Cold War tensions, led to a significant war scare, with the Soviet Union misinterpreting the exercise as a potential prelude to a real nuclear strike.
This year’s special event station will operate from a private museum in Sussex County, Delaware, replacing the previous location in Davidsonville, Maryland. The operation will feature transmissions on 29.65 mc FM, 51.00 mc FM, 75 & 40, 20, 18, 10 meters USB, and RTTY at 7080 mc, exclusively using Cold War-era military radio equipment. The event will be conducted in a “holiday style,” allowing operators to enjoy a relaxed and engaging experience while making contacts.
Participants can look forward to a unique opportunity to connect with others using vintage military radios, paying homage to the signal corps and clandestine services that played crucial roles during the Cold War. This event not only commemorates a pivotal moment in history but also celebrates the technological advancements and dedication of those who served during that era.
For more information, visit the official website at www.ablearcher83.com and join the community on Facebook to stay updated on event details and participate in discussions.
Mark your calendars and prepare your equipment for this extraordinary event that bridges the past and present through the power of radio communication.