What is the most common type of antenna for GMDSS VHF?

• A. White vertical collinear array
• B. Wire whip
• C. Dipole in a masthead
• D. Yagi array

Answer: (A)

For GMDSS VHF, reliable coverage all around the vessel with enough gain is key. A white vertical collinear array achieves this by stacking multiple radiating elements in a vertical line, which increases signal gain while maintaining an essentially omnidirectional pattern in azimuth. That combination—higher gain without losing coverage in any direction—is why this antenna type is the standard for GMDSS VHF installations. Simpler options like a wire whip usually offer less gain, a masthead dipole tends to be more directional and less uniform around the ship, and a Yagi array is highly directional, not ideal for safety communications that may come from any direction.