An unexpected invitation from the Venezuelan Navy gave rise to a DXpedition to Aves Island — Isla de Aves — (YV0), the current number 17 on the ClubLog DXCC Most Wanted List.

While trying to organize its annual IOTA DXpedition to Los Monjes Island (SA-015), members of the Asociación de Radioaficionados de Venezuela (ARV) and Grupo DX Caracas received the surprise Navy invite. Aves Island was last activated on February 13, 2007, by YW0DX.

Plans call for an August 31 departure with “a restricted number of operators,” to including both experienced and new operators from the Navy. The exact dates of operation are dependent on the Navy. The group will be on the air for up to 10 days as YX0V, with the full support of the Navy.

Despite the last-minute change of plans, a team has been chosen, as well as radios and antennas, and other logistics.

The tiny Aves Island is situated west of the Leeward Islands. It’s only about 1200 feet long and some 150 feet wide.