Drones, Jammers in Ukraine Signal New Era of Warfare

Defense News - The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, now entering its third year, has brought about a transformative shift in the nature of warfare, marked by the pivotal role played by drones and electronic warfare, according to the U.S. Navy Secretary.

In this protracted struggle, both the Russian and Ukrainian armed forces are leveraging unmanned aerial systems for reconnaissance, targeting, and offensive operations. Simultaneously, they are deploying jammers and spoofers to safeguard airspace or fortified positions. This intricate game of tactics and counter-tactics has proven to be lethal, as each side endeavors to outsmart and outbuild the other.

Speaking at the Association of Old Crows conference in Maryland on December 12, Secretary Carlos Del Toro emphasized the profound changes occurring in the world, underlining the uncertainty that looms over the future. Del Toro stressed that the conflict in Ukraine reinforces the imperative for the U.S. and its NATO allies to prioritize the development and maintenance of a responsive and interoperable combat force capable of operating effectively in contested environments, including the electromagnetic spectrum.

In response to this evolving landscape, the U.S. Department of Defense is channeling substantial financial resources into the advancement of drones, electronic warfare capabilities, and a combination of the two.

Noteworthy developments include the Navy testing of Lockheed Martin Advanced Off-Board Electronic Warfare pod, designed for installation on helicopters to detect and deceive anti-ship missiles. Additionally, the Navy showcased the integration of what was described as "unmanned and unmanned" elements during the Integrated Battle Problem exercise off the coast of California.

Del Toro acknowledged the dynamic nature of spectrum operations, particularly in electronic warfare, characterizing it as an ongoing sequence of strategic, operational, and tactical moves to gain advantages in the battlespace. The Navy established electronic warfare initiatives encompass the Growler aircraft from Boeing and the Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP), involving contractors General Dynamics, Lockheed, and Northrop Grumman.

The U.S. has committed both drones and electronic warfare equipment to support Ukraine, with details of the latter often undisclosed. Del Toro, along with other national security officials, recently met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Del Toro highlighted the urgency of sustained U.S. aid for Ukraine, expressing concern that such support could dwindle due to congressional disagreements.

Zelenskyy implored the entire U.S. government to expedite the passage of a crucial supplemental aid package currently under debate in Congress. Del Toro underscored the significance of this support, emphasizing the necessity of standing by allies and partners on the Ukrainian battlefield.