The ARANC expedition is headed by Eric Esposito, FK8GM, and it will commence operations on the 15th of March. Pending action on ARANC's application to the IARU for membership, the second phase of the operation may turn out to be the initial operation from a new DXCC entity, starting on the 23rd of March.

The expedition has secured a landing permit and the transportation arrangements are being work out from Koumac, at the Northern tip of New Caledonia. The entry permit was granted on the basis that the Chesterfields would be approached through FK-land.

The radio operating team consists of FK8GM, FK8HC, JA1BK, N4GN, N7NG, OH1RY, OH2BC, OH2BH, OH2RF (team doctor) and another ARANC representative who will be named later. Several experienced pilots are coordinating the communication in and out of the Chesterfields and providing continuos weather watch: F6AJA, FK8CR, JH1KRC, K6GNX and VK3EW.

This DXpedition is sponsored by Yaesu Musen Co. and supported by the RSGB IOTA management. The Chesterfield DXpedition web site will be launched on 01 January, 2000.