VHF-UHF propagation performance predictions for low altitude communication links operating over water

Abstract

The Kerr (MIT Rad Lab Vol. 13) graphical approximation for the height-gain functions used in trans-horizon diffraction propagation field strength computations are modified so as to be valid, assuming wavelengths of 3 meters or less, for all surface media, both polarizations, and low antenna heights down to zero. The modifications are particularly important for VHF-UHF vertically polarized propagation over sea water between low altitude electromagnetic platforms.<>