Ukraine has reportedly disrupted Russian glide bomb control systems, significantly impacting their battlefield effectiveness. This success, likely achieved through satellite jamming, forces Russia to expend more munitions and sorties for each strike. While Russia possesses countermeasures, the use of unencrypted receivers by many Russian soldiers may explain their vulnerability. This development, coupled with Ukraine’s growing air power from Western allies, could shift the battlefield balance, although the extent depends on continued Western support and access to advanced technologies.
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Initially, Russian forces effectively utilized UMPK glide bombs, achieving significant battlefield gains. However, widespread Ukrainian electronic jamming has severely degraded the bombs’ accuracy by disrupting their GLONASS satellite guidance. This necessitates the use of multiple bombs per target, increasing costs and risks for the Russian air force. The effectiveness of Ukrainian jamming contrasts sharply with the limited success of Russian jamming efforts and highlights a key technological advantage for Ukraine. This situation underscores the critical role of effective electronic warfare in modern combat.
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Despite sanctions imposed by the US and EU, the Kaluga Research Radio Engineering Institute (KNIIRI), a Russian defense contractor, purchased over $7.4 million in American and German electronic equipment through an intermediary, Gradient. This equipment, including signal analyzers and generators from Rohde & Schwarz and Keysight, is intended to boost the production of airborne electronic warfare systems for various Sukhoi aircraft. Deliveries are slated for completion by the end of 2025, with some shipments already received. This acquisition highlights the continued circumvention of sanctions targeting the Russian defense industry.
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SAS Captain Johan Lester reported GPS spoofing during an Oslo to Kirkenes flight, a phenomenon increasingly common near the Russian border. This spoofing, confirmed by Norwegian authorities, occurs alongside consistent GPS jamming originating from Russia, forcing airlines to implement alternative navigation procedures. The incident marks the first confirmed case of GPS spoofing on the Norwegian side of the border, prompting investigations and increased monitoring by Norwegian authorities. These actions include contacting international organizations and increasing their presence in the affected area.
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Ukraine’s sophisticated electronic warfare capabilities are effectively countering Russia’s drone attacks. By “spoofing” satellite coordinates, Ukrainian forces redirect incoming Shahed drones, causing them to self-destruct over Russian and Belarusian territory. This tactic, used during a recent record-breaking drone assault, complements traditional air defenses and conserves precious resources. The successful diversion of a significant number of drones highlights the growing effectiveness of Ukraine’s electronic warfare systems in disrupting Russian operations.
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As I read the news about another U.S. precision-guided weapon falling prey to Russian electronic warfare, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of concern and frustration. The Excalibur artillery rounds dropping from 70% effectiveness down to 6% due to GPS spoofing is a stark reminder of the ever-evolving nature of modern warfare. It’s clear that our enemies are becoming more adept at exploiting vulnerabilities in our technology, and it’s essential that we adapt and respond accordingly.
The fact that GPS encryption hasn’t been around for that long, yet is readily available, points to the rapid pace at which technology is advancing.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker