Russia steps up use of electronic warfare systems to disrupt Starlink in Crimea and on front line
Russian troops are deploying more electronic warfare (EW) systems to jam Starlink communications.
Source: Serhii "Flash" Beskrestnov, an adviser to Ukraine's president and a radio technology expert
Quote: "This type of system provides EW coverage for individual sites over an area of approximately 25 sq km. The Russians have deployed these systems to protect almost all key facilities in Crimea and are increasingly using them along the front line."
Details: Beskrestnov noted that these systems previously consisted of six trailers parked side by side at a single site, but Russian forces are now trying to conceal the equipment by spreading it across a wider area.
The systems are built around prime-focus satellite dish antennas approximately one metre in diameter.
Quote: "Regardless of the camouflage used, the systems must have an unobstructed view towards the zenith, which limits the options for concealing them."
Details: Beskrestnov said Russian forces could hide the systems among lorries and also use small car trailers.
He added that EW systems could operate under canopies made of polycarbonate or plastic film. The expert also identified opaque greenhouses as possible places to conceal the equipment. He also considers camouflage nets unlikely to be used in rear areas because they attract attention.
The systems do not necessarily have to be located near electrical substations, as they can also run on generators. According to Beskrestnov, they operate in the 14-14.5 GHz frequency range.
Background:
- In September, Beskrestnov reported that Russian companies were purchasing components to produce 300-400 more EW systems designed to jam Starlink communications.
- At the end of August, Russia reportedly began mass production of the Volna Kupol Garant EW system, which Russian forces use to jam the Starlink satellite communications system.
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