Military sources have reported that the integration of MESH modems in the operation of drones, specifically the Shahed and Gerbera models, enhances reconnaissance capabilities and extends the control zone for opposing forces.
According to military analyst Flesch, drone flights utilizing this technology are increasingly penetrating deeper into Ukrainian territory. Currently, the operational range of the guided Shahed drones extends from the northern regions down to Kyiv, from the east reaching Poltava, and from the south encompassing Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, Odesa, and Mykolaiv.
The MESH system establishes a network of drones equipped with radio modems that facilitate signal transmission. Specialized long-range antennas are deployed within enemy territory, often positioned on elevated terrains such as hills and towers.
The communication range with a drone can reach up to 220 kilometers, although this requires the drone to be at a significant altitude. In one instance, it was noted that two rocket drones were positioned near the target while another two operated several kilometers away. The drones responsible for maintaining communication ascended to approximately 2,200 meters, relaying signals to other drones executing low-altitude attacks.
This operational framework can incorporate multiple links, yet typically no more than two or three relay points are utilized, as increasing the chain can diminish data transmission speed and increase latency.
Before launching strikes, drones tend to maintain proximity to one another, thereby creating a more resilient radio signal that is more challenging to disrupt using electronic warfare measures.
It has been observed that standard electronic warfare systems designed to jam satellite navigation are ineffective when an operator manually controls a drone using onboard instruments.
The use of MESH modems in drone operations has significantly enhanced the reconnaissance capabilities and operational range of opposing forces in Ukraine. This technological advancement allows for deeper penetration into Ukrainian territory, complicating defensive measures.