Russia's Use of Electronic Warfare Systems
Russia is deploying electronic warfare (EW) systems known as "Volna Kupol Garant" to jam Starlink satellite internet in occupied areas of Ukraine. Each unit costs roughly one million dollars and can cover an area of about 20 square kilometers, according to commanders and soldiers from the 422nd Unmanned Systems Regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU), operating in the southern Zaporizhzhia region, as reported by Reuters. This highlights the growing role of electronic warfare in the conflict, where control of communications is a critical battlefield asset.
Widespread jamming of Starlink began several months ago, particularly after Ukrainian strikes targeted positions 100 to 150 kilometers deep into occupied territory. Isolated incidents of interference were already recorded in 2024. The "Volna Kupol Garant" systems consist of five to six wheeled containers equipped with camouflaged satellite antennas. They are used exclusively in occupied areas, as Starlink does not operate within Russia itself.
Ukrainian Adaptation to New Challenges
Ukrainian forces locate and physically destroy these systems, as they currently lack electronic countermeasures to neutralize them. The "Volna Kupol Garant" was first spotted on the Kharkiv front in 2024, and Ukrainian troops managed to eliminate it in the same region.
AFU personnel report some disruptions in Starlink connectivity but note that targets continue to be engaged successfully. One soldier in Donetsk region stated:
“Communication does deteriorate in certain spots, but drones haven’t been lost because of it—crews simply wait it out or fly to another location.”
These comments indicate that despite Russian EW efforts, Ukrainian forces are adapting to the evolving conditions on the battlefield.
Military expert Dmytro Sledyuk emphasized:
“In war, advantages are rarely long-lasting.”
This underscores that Ukrainian forces continue to seek ways to counter Russian technology, including in the realm of electronic warfare.
The situation surrounding Russia's use of electronic warfare systems highlights the increasing importance of information technology in modern military conflicts. Jamming Starlink could significantly impact Ukrainian communication capabilities, but their ability to adapt and destroy enemy systems reflects the active and dynamic nature of the war. This underscores the need for continuous technological and strategic development to maintain battlefield effectiveness.
As Ukrainian forces continue to adapt to the challenges posed by Russian electronic warfare systems, they face an ongoing threat from redeployed EW units. Recent reports indicate that after suffering losses, Russia is repositioning its jamming capabilities closer to the front lines. This strategic move underscores the persistent battle for control over communication networks in the region. For a deeper understanding of how these developments are impacting logistics and tactics, read more about the redeployment of destroyed electronic warfare systems.