Click to see full-size image. (Screenshot\Shark Aero)
Ukraine has received its first Shark U1 light manned aircraft modified for electronic warfare missions from the Czech-Slovak manufacturer Shark Aero, Ukrainian media reported on June 18.
The Shark U1 is derived from the Shark 600 aircraft. Its main mission is to detect and jam Russia’s longer-range reconnaissance and suicide drones, like the Orlan and Geran types which usually operated far behind the frontlines.
The aircraft’s electronic warfare system consists of two main components. The first jammer is dedicated to suppressing satellite signals, including GPS and GLONASS, which are commonly used by drones for navigation and guidance. Meanwhile, the second jammer is designed to interfere with video and command data-links.
The aircraft is powered by a 100-horsepower Rotax 912 ULS carbureted engine. A larger alternator has been installed to meet the electrical demands of the onboard electronic warfare equipment. The cruising speed is 270 kilometers per hour, with a maximum speed of 300 kilometers per hour.
The Shark U1 can remain airborne for up to 12 hours in fuel-saving mode and has an approximate range of 2,000 kilometers. The aircraft can also operate at higher altitudes. The onboard oxygen generation system is certified for flights up to 5,500 meters.
When operating at an altitude of 1,800 meters, the Shark U1 can reportedly create a jamming zone with a radius of 4.5 kilometers.
Drones relying solely on GNSS navigation may be vulnerable to this disruption. However, those equipped with supporting inertial navigation systems, such as Orlan and Geran-type drones, can survive interference by electronic warfare systems like the ones installed on the Shark U1. Data-links can be also tweaked to resist jamming.
Reports suggest that Ukraine has been using similar light electronic warfare manned aircraft for a while now, although it is unclear how successful they have been.
In addition, Kiev forces have been using lightly-armed Yak-52 trainer planes to intercept Russian drones far behind the frontlines.
All of these tactics show that Kiev is deeply worried about its corroded air defense network and the ever growing production of drones in Russia.
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