Electronic Warfare Against Drones: Portable UAV Defense

Every day on the frontlines, mobile groups of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces face a real threat from enemy drones. Personnel losses are closely linked to the enemy’s use of unmanned aerial vehicles, and in these conditions, portable electronic warfare (EW) systems have become not just technology, but a matter of survival.

What Portable Electronic Warfare Systems Are and How They Work

Portable electronic warfare systems are devices that jam the radio signals used for control and navigation of unmanned aerial vehicles. Their operation relies on emitting strong radio signals on the same frequencies that drones use to communicate with their operators and navigate.

When a portable EW device is activated, it creates interference within a specific frequency range. A drone entering this zone loses contact with its operator and GPS signals. Depending on the drone type, this can result in automatic return to the launch point, emergency landing, or total control loss.

The Benefits of Portability for Air Assault Units

For mobile groups of the Ukrainian Air Assault Forces, portability of EW systems is critically important. Unlike stationary setups, these devices offer:

Rapid deployment of protection. Units can activate EW systems within seconds of detecting a threat, which is crucial during the rapid-paced combat operations typical of air assault units.

Preservation of mobility. Modern portable EW systems weigh up to 10 kilograms, allowing soldiers to stay fast and maneuver easily.

Operational independence. Portable EW systems run on batteries and do not need external power, ensuring they can operate without dependency on infrastructure.

Tactical adaptability. The quick relocation of EW systems enables the creation of temporary safe zones across different battlefield locations and adaptation to changing conditions.

Technical Aspects of Effectiveness

The effectiveness of portable EW systems depends on several key factors:

1. The operating range begins at 160 meters, depending on the transmitter power and the target UAV.
2. Frequency coverage includes main drone communication bands: 2.4 GHz (most common), 5.8 GHz, and GPS frequencies 1.2–1.6 GHz, which are used by popular enemy drones like DJI Mavic and similar models.
3. The battery life of high-quality portable EW systems lasts around 2 hours of continuous use, suitable for tactical missions.

Ukrainian Manufacturer Defika

Lviv-based company Defika is developing electronic warfare systems for Ukraine’s armed forces. Its engineering team includes graduates from the Institute of Telecommunications, Radio Electronics, and Electronic Engineering at Lviv Polytechnic National University, with over 20 years of experience in high-frequency electronic device development.

The company focuses on current warfare demands, understanding how Ukrainian military units operate and the reliability needed from equipment in field conditions.

The VIK-2K EW System: Reliable Support for Air Assault Units

One of Defika’s main products is the VIK-2K EW system, designed specifically for Ukraine’s Air Assault Forces and proven effective in combat. The system deactivates DJI Mavic-type drones by jamming their frequencies in two ranges – 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz.

Key benefits of the VIK-2K for mobile units include:

Mobility and flexible deployment. Weighing up to 10 kg, it offers quick, universal mounting options on backpacks, handheld units, or tripods, helping troops adapt to different tactical situations.

Versatile power options. The system can run on internal batteries (up to 2 hours), 220V mains, or external 24V batteries, which is critical for autonomous missions.

Effective jamming range. With a total power of 100 W, it provides interference over at least 160 meters, enough to protect units from reconnaissance drones.

Durability in the field. Features like active cooling for extended operation and a rugged case that withstands temperature changes and mechanical impacts are essential for frontline use.

Practical Results of Using Portable Electronic Warfare

Operational use of portable EW systems like the VIK-2K demonstrates high effectiveness. Proper deployment can reduce enemy drone reconnaissance success by 70–90%. The presence of EW also has a psychological effect, as it forces enemies to spend extra resources planning drone routes and finding bypasses.

Limitations and Challenges of Electronic Warfare Systems

Despite their advantages, portable EW systems have limitations. They are mainly effective against drones operating on standard communication frequencies. Some high-grade military UAVs have anti-jamming features or operate autonomously.

Additionally, activating EW systems can reveal a unit’s position, so their use must be strictly tactical.

Bottomline

Portable EW systems are now a vital part of modern combat tactics, especially for mobile air assault units. Their proven effectiveness against drones like the Mavic and other UAVs shows their importance. Ukraine’s growing industry, with companies like Defika, provides a solid foundation to meet these operational needs.

If your military unit needs effective counter-UAV solutions, consider equipping it with portable EW systems. It’s an investment in the safety of your personnel and the success of your mission’s effectiveness.