Modern aerial warfare is not just about maneuvers and precision, but also an invisible battle of radio signals. Ukrainian specialists and developers of electronic warfare (EW) systems reveal the details of how enemy unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and cruise missiles are neutralized. The defense is based on two fundamental mechanisms: jamming communication channels and spoofing satellite navigation.

Two Fronts of the Radio Battle

According to RBK-Ukraine materials, the operation of EW means is based on suppressing or distorting signals necessary for the functioning of a drone. The first mechanism is classic jamming. Specialized equipment creates powerful radio noise that blocks communication channels between the pilot and the UAV. In such an "electromagnetic fog," the drone physically cannot receive control commands.

The second method is spoofing. This is a more sophisticated attack involving the substitution of GPS satellite signals. As a result, the UAV receives false coordinates, goes off course, or completely loses its orientation in space. Both methods aim to render the drone useless to the enemy before it reaches its target.

Physics of Suppression: Battle of Power

Maxim Teftul, product owner of the EW direction at TAF Industries, explains the technical essence of the process. The "pilot-drone" system involves two key receivers: one is on the UAV itself (receiving commands and navigation), and the second is on the operator's controller (receiving the video stream). To neutralize the target, it is sufficient to suppress one of these channels.

The operation of a radio receiver depends on the ability to distinguish a useful signal from background noise. EW systems generate radio waves on the same frequencies as the drone's control or video transmission channels. This artificially lowers the signal-to-noise ratio below the receiver's sensitivity threshold.

This task is solved through brute force. For interference to be effective, its power at the receiver antenna must exceed the power of the useful signal. This is why EW complexes generate interference with a power of 50 W and above, significantly exceeding the weak transmitters installed on drones. Some installations target control, others video communication, and others navigation.

UAV Response to Loss of Connection

When EW impact leads to a loss of connection or orientation, the further fate of the drone depends on the algorithms embedded in it. Depending on the settings, the UAV may:

  • Emergency return to the takeoff base;
  • Perform a forced landing in the nearest available location;
  • Hover in the air, waiting for the connection to be restored;
  • Fall uncontrollably.

Protection Against "Shaheds" and Cruise Missiles

Ukrainian EW complexes demonstrate unique effectiveness against more complex targets, such as "Shahed"-type kamikaze drones. Experts note that Ukrainian systems were the first in the world to learn how to suppress such drones directly during their approach to a city. However, this requires coordinated work: from 2 to 10 tactical-level complexes acting in conjunction with radio intelligence (RWR) and radars. The number of required installations depends on the type of communication system installed on a specific "Shahed".

Furthermore, Ukrainian EW means are capable of affecting cruise missiles. They suppress the operation of radio altimeters and optical navigation correction systems. Deprived of accurate data on altitude and course, missiles lose orientation and fall outside planned targets, causing no damage to infrastructure.