Ukrainian forces have uncovered the secret Russian-made Volnorez counter-drone electronic warfare system in Russia’s Kursk region. The discovery reveals that the system was found in its original factory packaging, complete with a technical brochure.
The Volnorez (Breakwater) counter-UAS jammer, first unveiled to the public at the Russian Army Expo in 2023, has now been actively deployed in the conflict in Ukraine. Reports from social media in mid-September indicate that this advanced electronic warfare system has been mounted on Russian T-80BVM main battle tanks operating in the Ukrainian battlefield. This marks a significant escalation in Russia’s efforts to protect its armored units from the increasing threat of Ukrainian drones, particularly those used in kamikaze-style attacks. The deployment of Volnorez highlights Russia’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge electronic warfare capabilities into its frontline units to enhance their survivability in the ongoing conflict.
The Volnorez represents the latest in Russia’s counter-drone technology, designed to neutralize UAV threats. This system is considered one of the most advanced and secretive in Russia’s defense arsenal. Its recent deployment on Russian tanks in Ukraine underscores its strategic importance in modern warfare, as Russia seeks to counter the increasing effectiveness of Ukrainian drones.
The Volnorez electronic warfare system is an advanced counter-drone technology developed to protect military vehicles, particularly tanks, from the threat of FPV (First Person View) kamikaze drones. This system works by emitting radio frequency interference that disrupts the control signals between the drone and its operator. When an FPV drone approaches a vehicle equipped with Volnorez, it loses connection, forcing it to either land or hover until its battery depletes. This neutralizes the drone’s threat, ensuring the vehicle remains unharmed.
The Volnorez system is lightweight, weighing only 13 kg, and has compact dimensions, making it easy to install on various military platforms. It operates across a broad range of frequencies and has an output power of 30 watts, functioning effectively in extreme temperatures ranging from -40 to +60°C. The system’s installation is straightforward, requiring just 10 minutes using magnetic mounts, which avoid the need for any structural modifications to the vehicle.
Volnorez has been deployed on Russian tanks, such as the T-80BVM, which come equipped with both anti-drone cages and the Volnorez system. This deployment underscores its effectiveness in modern warfare, where drone threats are increasingly prevalent. The system’s ability to operate across various frequencies used by FPV drones makes it a versatile and essential tool in electronic warfare, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Globally, similar systems are being developed, but Volnorez represents a significant advancement in Russia’s approach to counter-drone technology. The confidentiality surrounding its technical details and its successful integration into Russian military operations highlight its importance in the broader scope of electronic warfare and the ongoing technological arms race.
The discovery of Russia’s Volnorez counter-drone electronic warfare system by Ukrainian troops could have significant implications for both sides in the conflict. For Russia, it represents a potential security breach, exposing one of its most advanced and secretive counter-drone technologies. For Ukraine, gaining access to this system provides valuable intelligence and potentially the ability to develop countermeasures or even repurpose the technology for their defense. This could shift the technological balance in the ongoing conflict, influencing future engagements and strategies.
Source: Army Recognition