Ukrainian military units specializing in electronic warfare are increasingly vital in countering drone threats amid ongoing conflict. These units employ advanced tactics to disrupt enemy navigation systems and communication, significantly impacting the battlefield.
For the first time in the four-year span of the full-scale war, Ukrainian forces are actively collaborating with electronic warfare (EW) units. Commander of the EW company from the 260th Brigade of Territorial Defense, known by the call sign “Monkey”, notes that the perception of electronic warfare has shifted dramatically over the past year.
He explains, “This area was previously underestimated. The focus was primarily on drones, and few wanted to serve in electronic warfare units.” The commander, who previously worked as a design engineer for a defense company, joined the military in 2024 and received training in electronic reconnaissance, electronic warfare, and drone operations.
One of the key systems used is the “Bukovel-PP”, a compact domestic electronic warfare module capable of disrupting communications over a distance of up to five kilometers. This equipment is crucial for protecting populated areas, and the commander emphasizes that increasing the number of such systems would enhance operational effectiveness.
The process begins at a command post monitoring the airspace. Once a drone is detected, the command post alerts the electronic warfare team, which then receives specific frequency data to execute the disruption. As the conflict evolves, enemy operators are adapting by changing frequencies, making it more challenging for Ukrainian forces to jam signals.
“Operators are aware when our electronic warfare systems are active and quickly switch frequencies,” the commander explains. “Our mission is to identify these new channels and suppress them, which is where reconnaissance plays a crucial role.” He acknowledges the difficulty in proving the effectiveness of their operations, as success is often invisible. Unlike artillery, which can confirm hits on targets, electronic warfare results are harder to quantify.
Despite the challenges, the commander asserts that without electronic warfare, the situation in cities like Zaporizhzhia would be far worse. He states, “We act as a shield rather than a sword, preventing guided bombs from reaching their targets and minimizing destruction.” The soldiers in these units understand their role as a protective barrier against enemy advances, contributing significantly to the overall defense strategy.
The commander highlights the need for continued development in electronic warfare technology, emphasizing the importance of collaboration between different military units. Effective communication and coordination are essential for maximizing the impact of electronic warfare operations.
As the conflict continues, the role of electronic warfare units remains critical in adapting to evolving threats and ensuring the safety of both military personnel and civilians.
Ukrainian electronic warfare units are playing a crucial role in countering drone threats on the battlefield. By disrupting enemy navigation and communication, these units significantly enhance defensive capabilities amidst ongoing conflict.
