Electronic warfare (EW) is one of the methods of counteracting the enemy in the modern world. EW systems are designed not only for the protection of automotive and armored vehicles but also for the defense of important industrial facilities and strategically significant enterprises.
Modern warfare requires the implementation of new technologies and protection against enemy drones. Various types of UAVs cause the most damage to military personnel and equipment. Therefore, there is a need for the active development of EW systems.
What are EW systems?
EW is a comprehensive combat support system that creates radio interference to suppress mobile and satellite communications. The main task of the device is to suppress high-frequency signals and weaken the enemy’s operations. Modern systems can be deployed stationary or on various carriers: automotive equipment, aviation, navy.
The Ukrainian manufacturer Wartex produces systems to solve the following tasks:
- Radio-electronic protection of critical infrastructure facilities.
- Safety of personnel and military equipment.
- Suppression of enemy systems.
How does the EW system work?
EW systems affect the enemy’s electronic systems and disable them. They emit interference that disorganizes enemy drones. Depending on the type, there can be radio-technical, optoelectronic, and hydroacoustic suppression.
In 2023, Wartex launched its own production of systems, using innovative technologies in development. Wartex systems are developed based on the expert knowledge of the team and the experience of other companies to ensure perfect performance on the front lines. The team’s priority is to ensure the safety of each unit with the highest level of protection.
What types of EW systems exist?
Radio-electronic systems continue to develop and improve, especially with the advent of artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies. There are different systems that meet specific military needs.
By range:
- Tactical: Cover an area up to 50 km. Their main function is to protect the location of combat equipment or military units.
- Operational-tactical: Operate within a radius of up to 500 km. They protect not only equipment and personnel but also assist the military. They detect enemy air targets, block communication channels, and disrupt the operation of enemy reconnaissance drones.
- Strategic: Provide a high level of long-range protection over 500 km.
By configuration and size:
- Stationary systems: Have a large action area and effectively suppress enemy station signals. They are used to protect critical objects or strongpoints from perimeter attacks.
- Mobile stations: Convenient due to their small size and deployment speed. Suitable for protecting individual pieces of equipment or during personnel movement. For example, a dome-type EW system can cover necessary positions in a circle.
- Anti-drone rifles: Suppress UAV signals. Direct line of sight is required for application.
- Personal jammers: Personal protection for soldiers against kamikaze drones within a radius of up to 300 meters.
The use of EW systems for drones is limited by the electromagnetic environment: natural noise, interference, weather conditions. Therefore, mobile devices, which will be discussed further, are chosen for precise planning and operational control.
Trench and Mobile EW Systems
Tactical systems include trench and mobile EW systems.
Trench EW: A device that protects against strike drones by jamming their operating frequencies. It repels reconnaissance UAVs and covers important objects.
Mobile systems: Operate from moving vehicles or transport. This can be:
- A small vehicle-mounted EW with a remote control system.
- A portable EW installed on combat equipment or in the working area of units.
- A dome EW system that creates a “dome” of protection around itself.
- A portable EW that protects moving vehicles from enemy UAV strikes.
Types of EW by Impact
Electronic jamming is conducted to counter enemy reconnaissance systems. This involves using simple noise interference or false signals:
- Unintentional interference: Natural or industrial electromagnetic emissions such as power lines, onboard equipment emissions, weather phenomena.
- Simulated interference: Similar to real ones, used to create false information.
Accordingly, radio-electronic systems are distinguished by their impact type:
- Reconnaissance systems: Designed to detect and identify data about electronic systems, communications, and navigation.
- Protective complexes: Used for the safety of their own EW systems from interference.
- Countermeasures devices: Create interference for enemy systems, disabling them.
The Ukrainian manufacturer Wartex continuously expands the functions of its systems and improves existing ones. For high-quality and long-term use, a clearly developed and tested model is necessary. The Wartex team meets hundreds of soldiers’ needs every day and works towards victory.
