According to Ihnat, the new Chinese-made CRPA antenna has doubled the number of radio channels used for satellite navigation—to 16, up from eight.
“If before there were eight channels, now there are 16,” said Ihnat.
“We must suppress these signals with our electronic warfare measures. A Shahed drone relies on satellite navigation and guidance and must be forced off course — effectively ‘disoriented’ — by jamming its signal. Our electronic warfare systems aim to ensure that the drone does not reach its target but instead crashes in a location that minimizes danger to civilians.”
He added that if enemy drones have more powerful antennas, Ukrainian forces will need additional resources to counter the enhanced communication system.
“Our military-industrial complex is ramping up production, and we’re receiving partner assistance, as well as support from other organizations and funds,” Ihnat noted.
“It’s important to note that an electronic warfare system bought off OLX [Ukrainian marketplace website] may not be effective. In many cases, operators rely on these systems, and they don’t always perform as expected.”