The Harris RF 3161 is an omnidirectional, vertically polarized antenna designed for operation while directly attached to the operator's vest or rucksack. Using this antenna, a 1 kg handheld radio can achieve similar range performance as a traditional 3 5 kg manpack radio with integrated blade antenna. The RF 3161 has three parts: a flexible antenna body, 1 m blade antenna, and a coaxial cable. The blade allows the operator the flexibility to be folded (over the shoulder for example) to remain below helmet level. The flexible antenna body attaches to the soldier's outerware at two points, normally the belt and shoulder loop, and adjusts to body shape or movement to remain comfortable. A short coaxial cable connects the antenna to the radio, allowing the radio to be carried in a holster, pocket, or vest pouch. This allows the communication operator to remove their ruck sack while retaining communication capability. The RF 3161 is ground independent, so it can easily be deployed in a variety of configurations to gain additional height and therefore line of sight range. For example, a portable elevation kit may be used or the antenna simply hoisted over a tree limb while the radio itself remains at ground level.