KYIV, Ukraine — Russian forces may be attempting to equip some Shahed-type long-range attack drones with two different electronic warfare (EW) systems, one intended to suppress Ukrainian interceptor drones and another designed to interfere with ground-based radar systems, according to Ukrainian radio technology expert and Defense Ministry adviser Serhiy “Flash” Beskrestnov.
Beskrestnov reported in May 2026 that there were reasonable suspicions that certain Shahed drones had been fitted with EW equipment for these two purposes. The report did not establish that all Shahed drones carry such systems.
EW Systems Intended to Counter Interceptor Drones
One of the suspected EW systems is intended to interfere with Ukrainian interceptor drones used to attack Shahed-type UAVs.
According to Beskrestnov, the system can target the video transmission between an interceptor drone and its operator on the ground. By transmitting interference on the relevant frequencies, the onboard jammer can make it difficult or impossible for the operator to receive the interceptor's live video feed.
The loss of the video connection is particularly relevant for FPV-style interceptor drones that depend on an operator to control the final approach toward a target.
Beskrestnov has also explained that the frequencies used by Ukrainian interceptor drones can be identified because information about some of the equipment and communication systems is publicly available.
Possible Radar-Jamming System
The second suspected EW system would have a different role: creating interference for ground-based radar systems.
Beskrestnov described the presence of such equipment as a reasonable suspicion rather than a confirmed feature of every Shahed. The available reporting therefore does not establish how many drones may carry radar-jamming equipment or how effective such a system is against Ukrainian radar networks.
Evidence of EW Modifications
The reports are part of a broader series of modifications observed on Russian Shahed/Geran-type drones.
Ukrainian officials have previously confirmed that some modified Shahed-type drones have been equipped with electronic warfare systems intended to suppress Ukrainian interceptor drones. In May 2026, Ukrainian Deputy Defense Minister Oleksii Vyskub said that such modified drones had been observed during Russian attacks.
Other modifications reported on Shahed-type drones include additional antennas and cameras. Ukrainian analysts have also reported rear-facing cameras on some drones, although the exact operational purpose of individual modifications can vary.
Russia has also been changing the types and tactics of Shahed-family drones used in attacks. Serhiy Beskrestnov said in July that Russia was increasingly using jet-powered Shahed variants for attacks deeper inside Ukraine after Ukrainian forces improved their ability to intercept conventional propeller-driven versions.
Continuing Drone and EW Competition
The reported EW modifications reflect the continuing adaptation of Russian long-range attack drones in response to Ukraine's use of interceptor drones.
Ukrainian forces have increasingly used relatively low-cost interceptor UAVs against Shahed-type attack drones. Russia has responded with modifications intended to make its drones more difficult to intercept, including electronic warfare equipment and other changes to their configuration.
However, the exact number of Shahed drones equipped with the suspected two types of EW systems, their technical specifications and their overall effectiveness remain unclear.
For now, the key assessment from Beskrestnov is that some Russian Shahed-type drones may be carrying one EW system intended to suppress Ukrainian interceptor drones and another intended to create interference for ground-based radar systems. This remains a reported assessment rather than confirmation that the capability is present across the entire Shahed fleet.
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