  In this paper we present the electromagnetic modeling and beam pattern
measurements of a 16-elements ultra wideband sparse random test array for the
low frequency instrument of the Square Kilometer Array telescope. We discuss
the importance of a small array test platform for the development of
technologies and techniques towards the final telescope, highlighting the most
relevant aspects of its design. We also describe the electromagnetic
simulations and modeling work as well as the embedded-element and array pattern
measurements using an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle system. The latter are helpful
both for the validation of the models and the design as well as for the future
instrumental calibration of the telescope thanks to the stable, accurate and
strong radio frequency signal transmitted by the UAV. At this stage of the
design, these measurements have shown a general agreement between experimental
results and numerical data and have revealed the localized effect of
un-calibrated cable lengths in the inner side-lobes of the array pattern.
