Comment from Sergey Beskrestnov on electronic warfare
On August 7, former adviser to the Minister of Defense Sergey Beskrestnov explained in a Facebook post that electronic warfare (EW) does not cause strike drones 'Shaheds' to fall and does not deflect ballistic missiles. He noted that EW blocks the drone's ability to find a target, which, in turn, creates an additional opportunity for air defense (AD) to shoot it down. At the same time, Beskrestnov pointed out that the influence on guided aerial bombs (GAB) is technically possible, but does not destroy the bomb, complicating their deflection in cities due to the risk of falling on Ukrainian territory.
Effectiveness of electronic warfare
In his post, Beskrestnov stated that
“EW does not cause 'Shahed' to fall. EW does not allow 'Shahed' to find and attack a target, and provides an additional opportunity to shoot down 'Shahed' by AD forces”— Sergey Beskrestnov. He also emphasized that
“EW does not deflect ballistics. Even if EW could do this, we would not use this possibility in cities. It is better for a rocket to land at night on the territory of an empty factory than in a neighboring residential complex under the influence of EW”— Sergey Beskrestnov.
Beskrestnov added that EW technologies can influence GAB, but implementing this is difficult as the opponent continuously works on protecting guidance systems.
“No one would dare to deflect a GAB that is heading toward a factory in a city. Deflecting a GAB outside the settlement will not destroy the GAB. It will land on our territory, causing damage”— Sergey Beskrestnov.
Beskrestnov's post was a response to numerous questions regarding the effectiveness of EW against aerial threats. It is worth noting that earlier the publication 'Wave' highlighted topics related to the change of 'writing style' of 'Shaheds' and the choice of targets by the Russian Federation, as well as the first private AD in Ukraine.
Beskrestnov's statement emphasizes the importance of electronic warfare in modern warfare conditions, as well as highlights the technical difficulties associated with its implementation. This may influence the strategies of both Ukrainian and Russian military forces, as both sides seek to adapt their combat methods in response to new technologies. The effectiveness of EW and the development of air defense remain key aspects in countering drones and ballistic missiles.