Determination of Level of Radio Frequency Field Exposure to Military Personnel from Tactical Field Expedient Antennas

Abstract

Radio communication is an integral part of any military operation. This helps commanders at all levels to achieve command and control in their operational environment. The employment of these radios with their corresponding antennas has led to an increase in the concern of the potential health risks that may arise as a result of exposure to radio frequency (RF) radiations. The main objective of this research was to determine the levels of radio frequency field exposure to military personnel from tactical expedient antennas. The electric field strength and Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) of selected military radio antenna were measured at various distances from radio antennas locations in the Burma Camp barracks and analysed during real-time transmission. The radios antennas were selected based on their employment in the field of operations: base station, manpack vehicle mount and handheld (SAR).