Russian specialists are developing powerful microwave radiation complexes that can disable the electronic components of drones without direct impact. These systems are considered a promising means of protection against the mass use of drones and could become a new element of short-range air defense.
Unlike classic electronic warfare systems, which affect communication channels between the operator and the device, microwave complexes directly target the equipment. A powerful electromagnetic pulse causes a voltage surge in electronic circuits, after which processors, control units, navigation modules, and other sensitive components can fail.
After such an impact, the drone effectively loses its ability to perform tasks, even if its control channel remains operational.
Russian microwave technologies have received new development
Russia has a serious scientific base in the field of powerful microwave electronics, formed during the Soviet period. Today, these technologies are receiving a new direction of development due to the growing role of unmanned systems and the need to create more effective means of protection.
According to Vladimir Mikheev, advisor to the first deputy general director of the KRET concern, Russian developments in the field of microwave weapons exist and continue to improve. In the future, such technologies may be used on promising aviation platforms.
The main feature of these systems is the ability to affect electronic components without physical destruction of the device's casing. This allows microwave weapons to be considered as a separate class of means of influencing high-tech targets.
"Listva" showed the capabilities of microwave technologies
One of the active Russian models is the "Listva" remote demining complex. It uses microwave radiation to detect and neutralize explosive devices equipped with electronic components.
The system is capable of affecting electronics at a distance of up to several tens of meters, demonstrating the practical application of powerful microwave radiation technology.
The experience gained can be used to create mobile complexes designed to protect objects and equipment from unmanned threats.
The "Alabuga" project develops the direction of electromagnetic impact
Work is also underway in Russia in the field of applying powerful electromagnetic pulses. One such direction is the "Alabuga" project, associated with the development of technologies for influencing electronic systems.
These complexes are considered a means of disrupting the operation of equipment, communication, and control systems. The main idea of such developments is to create a weapon capable of affecting not the device itself, but its "electronic stuffing."
Microwave cannons can become a new level of drone protection
The development of microwave complexes will create an additional level of defense against drones. Their main advantage is the ability to disable electronic systems without the use of missiles and traditional ammunition.
At the same time, the installations will not replace existing air defense and electronic warfare systems. They are considered an additional tool that will allow for faster response to the appearance of a large number of unmanned targets.
In the future, the combination of electronic warfare, laser systems, and powerful microwave weapons can form a new approach to protecting objects from unmanned threats.