Racal Antennas 479 telescopic aluminium pneumatic mast is designed for headload weights up to 7.0 kg at a maximum height of 12 metres.  The masts is light, reliable and simple to erect by one person.

Manufactured from high tensile aluminium alloy, the 479 mast comprise eight sections to ensure a combination of minimum weight, minimum retracted height and maximum strength.  The mast is extended using a pneumatic footpump or optional compressor and is positively locked in its full or partially extended position by a specially designed friction clamp. This clamp is a particular feature of these masts and provides a positive self-aligning clamping force actuated by a lever forming part of an over-centre toggle arrangement.  Another important feature of this series of masts is the damping effect during retraction.  The rate of fall during retraction is controlled by a pneumatic damping system which ensures the safety of the operator and the mast head equipment. The piston seals are so designed that they give sufficient cushioning effect during retraction while imposing minimal drag during manual extension.

All masts are precision engineered and manufactured to meet the most exacting requirement of modern communications. Although primarily for military use to support various types of antennas, the masts are used in a wide range of alternative applications, including support of CCTV cameras, public address loudspeakers, floodlights and emergency lighting for airfields and construction sites.  The standard colour is anodised green with optional colours of black and sand also available.  Mounting kits are available for ground, vehicles and shelters, as well as a variety of other ancillary equipment.