War is evolving in real time, and the Russian side has already entered a new phase of technological confrontation in the sky. If strike drones like the 'Shahed' were previously perceived as relatively primitive targets for air defense systems, the situation is now changing. According to intelligence and Ukrainian military sources, Moscow has begun to massively equip its unmanned aerial vehicles with electronic warfare (EW) systems.
This is not just an upgrade, but an attempt to radically change tactics. Now, 'Shaheds' are not only warhead carriers but also active jamming devices. Their task is to suppress the control signals of Ukrainian interceptor drones, which previously effectively shot down enemy targets in the air.
New Threat to Ukrainian Air Defense
Alexey Vyskub, a representative of the Ukrainian side, confirmed the existence of such modifications. According to him, drones are now flying with the goal of 'jamming' our interception means. This creates a difficult situation for air defense operators: they have to deal with targets that are trying to disrupt the operation of defensive systems themselves.
Russian military forces are adapting tactics, understanding that old attack methods are becoming ineffective. Implementing EW on board cheap drones is an attempt to increase their survivability and guarantee hits on critical infrastructure objects, despite dense defense.
Countermeasures and International Support
In the context of escalating threats, Ukraine is actively seeking new solutions. If Russia strengthens its drones, Kyiv receives responsive support from allies. Thus, Belgium has decided to transfer 15 Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft installations to Ukraine. This equipment, which has undergone repair and modernization, will become a powerful tool for intercepting aerial targets, including high-speed and maneuverable objects.
At the same time, cooperation with Spain is expanding. Partners are focusing not only on supplies but also on creating joint production capacities. This involves the development of new unmanned aerial vehicles and the provision of long-range ammunition, which will allow the Ukrainian side not only to defend but also to dictate its own terms in the airspace.