Major S. Yashin

The relevance of this topic is due to the spread of modern air defense systems in the world, which threatens the conquest and retention of air superiority by the United States when participating in possible future armed (military) conflicts. One of the main components of combat support for conducting combat operations (operations) with the participation of aerospace attack means is electronic warfare (EW), without which it is impossible to effectively overcome or break through the enemy's air defense system.

A key feature of modern and developed electronic warfare equipment is their inclusion in the onboard complex of radio-electronic equipment (BREK) with general control. This principle of structural organization is inherent in all aviation electronic warfare systems, regardless of the types of carriers, which include specialized electronic warfare aircraft, combat aircraft, military aircraft. transport aviation, helicopters and UAVs, including maneuvering decoys.

Considering the structure of interaction of a higher order, one should note an integrated approach to solving combat missions of the Air Force, which consists in organizing the coordinated use of all available resources. A complex approach can only be implemented if there is a clear distribution of functions between forces and means, full possession of information about one’s own forces and the forces of the enemy, and also if there is a well-functioning scheme of interaction within the framework of the unified information and communication space (UICS) being formed.

The US Armed Forces Development Program currently contains a number of program elements (PEs) related to the creation of new and modernization of existing electronic warfare aviation facilities.

PE "Combat electronic systems" (Electronic Combat Technology) includes three projects. The purpose of this EP is to develop experimental models of technical means that provide the Air Force with the ability to conduct electronic warfare. Efforts American specialists aimed at the development of radio-electronic components and subsystems for operations in aerospace.

Project 633720 involves the development of capabilities for rapid response to changes in the electronic environment, as well as the development of highly effective methods of electronic suppression (REW) and functional destruction (FP).

In particular, it is planned to create directed energy destruction systems, tools and algorithms for the impact of malicious software on computer systems and automated control systems (ACS), multispectral radio-electronic equipment, as well as conduct experiments on the radio electronic equipment of air defense systems.

Goals project 63431G are the development of experimental models of electronic warfare and the provision of situational awareness of the crews of aircraft (LA). Work is being carried out in two main areas.

The first is connected with the improvement of means of warning about radar exposure and missile attack. The work includes the development of receivers, new algorithms for data pre-processing, as well as the creation and evaluation of software (SW) for the use of existing and future radio-electronic systems and facilities.

The second direction involves the creation of components of the electronic warfare equipment, including antenna systems and power amplifiers.

Priority was given to the development of technologies and methods of electronic warfare to counter existing and future threats in the radio range, providing for:
- carrying out laboratory experiments and modeling of adaptive REB methods;
- development of experimental software for the REP system with elements of artificial intelligence;
- demonstration of the concept of electronic protection of their RES in the face of the emergence of new threats in the radio range.

Target project 63691X -creation and testing of experimental models of optoelectronic countermeasures (infrared homing heads for guided missiles - IR-GOS UR) optoelectronic, including laser guidance and target designation systems.

The main areas of work include:
- analysis of the level of vulnerability of modern IR control systems missile weapons and sensitivity of advanced IR sensors;
- study of promising technologies for creating effective means of optoelectronic countermeasures.

PE "The use of aviation electronic warfare" (AEA - Airborne Electronic Attack) is aimed at developing methods of application, evaluating effectiveness, formulating requirements and distributing tasks between electronic warfare systems within the framework of a single system for their application by simulating various environmental conditions. Also, the AEA PE includes the study of technical risks in the creation of electronic warfare equipment, the development and adjustment of a plan for their financing.

As part of project 655192 the following is provided:
- modeling of operations and evaluation of the effectiveness of the use of airborne systems of electronic warfare in solving defensive and offensive tasks by aviation means;
- conducting an analysis of options for the combat use of individual electronic warfare equipment to ensure the survivability of fourth-generation fighters in the course of various operations, including asymmetric combat operations.

PE "Developments in the field of electronic warfare" (Electronic Warfare Development) includes project 653891 , within the framework of which work is underway on flight tests of expendable means of optoelectronic suppression. The main goal of the project is to increase the survivability of the aircraft through the development and modernization of air-to-air and ground-to-air missile defense systems with advanced IR and combined radar / IR seekers.

PE "Active-passive system for warning about threats and ensuring the survivability of the F-15E aircraft" (EPAWSS - Eagle Passive / Active Warning and Survivability System) includes one project of the same name.

This PE is designed to replace the TEWS (Tactical Electronic Warfare System) electronic warfare system from the F-15E tactical fighter individual protection system with a more advanced active-passive warning and survivability system - EPAWSS. It is expected that it will significantly improve the situational awareness of the crew and increase the effectiveness of countering current and future threats in a complex REO.

EPAWSS will automatically detect, identify and counter threats in the radio and optical ranges of electromagnetic waves (EMW). It will provide a display of the types, location, operating modes of the RES for controlling weapons of ground-based air defense systems and airborne radars of fighters for
subsequent actions of the crew to perform a maneuver or counter threats.

The EPAWSS executive subsystem will presumably consist of an automatic ejection machine for expendable electronic warfare equipment (false thermal targets, chaff), active electronic warfare equipment and towed decoys (BLTS). The EPAWSS itself must solve the problems of both individual and group protection of a group of aircraft.

PE "Modernization of the special on-board equipment of the electronic warfare aircraft ES-130N "Compass Call" includes project 674804 . The main goal of the measures is the phased modernization of the special on-board radio-electronic equipment of the EU-130N aircraft to ensure effective counteraction to the existing and prospective troop and weapon command and control systems of a potential enemy. The main efforts are aimed at improving the subsystems for analyzing and generating signals, containers with SPEAR (Special Emitter Array) electronic warfare equipment, software, developing new ways to counter threats in the radio and optical wave bands, installing digital multifunctional displays in the cockpit, and integrating avionics. in EICP.

As part of project 674804 work is underway related to the new human-machine interaction interface, the installation of a new transmitting antenna array, technologies for receiving and processing signals, electronic jamming of radars, radio electronics satellite navigation and connections.

Within the PE "Perspective technologies in the field of electromagnetic systems" (Electromagnetic Systems Advanced Technology) funding project 2913 .

The ongoing research is aimed at developing technologies that would make it possible to move from the disparate use of systems and means to the formation of a system within the framework of the concept of combat operations in the EICP, including reconnaissance systems, electronic warfare equipment and connections.

The purpose of the research carried out within the framework of the 2913 project is the development of technologies in the field of radio electronics for the creation of airborne radio-electronic and optoelectronic reconnaissance sensors, systems and means of electronic warfare, communications and global positioning. One of the main directions is related to the development of promising technologies for integrating antenna systems of on-board radio electronic equipment (electronic warfare equipment, radar, communication and navigation equipment) into a single multifunctional antenna system.

Within the PE "Tactical Directed Optoelectronic Countermeasures System" (TADIRCM -Tactical Airborne Directed Infrared Countermeasures) funding is provided for the creation and testing of individual systems for optoelectronic countermeasures and protection of aircraft of the US Navy and MP.

Within the PE "Modernization of specialized aircraft EW EA-18G" (EA-18 Squadrons) provided funding project 3063 . The purpose of this program is to modernize and expand the range of weapons and special equipment for the carrier-based electronic warfare aircraft EA-18G, "Growler", as well as to develop new methods for its combat use. Work continues on the creation of a new generation of electronic warfare equipment and their integration into the on-board radio-electronic complex (BREC) of the aircraft.

According to this project, the on-board radio-electronic equipment of the electronic warfare aircraft is being modernized in order to increase the capabilities for detecting, locating and recognizing enemy radio electronic equipment for their subsequent electronic suppression and ensuring the use of HARM (High-speed Anti-Radiation Missile) air-to-air missiles.

Project 3063 provides for:
- Integration of the EA-18G REC aircraft into the EICP, as a result of which it can be used both autonomously as an offensive electronic warfare complex, and as a key element of the EICP in combat operations with the tasks of radio and electronic intelligence (R and RTR) and electronic warfare .
- Development of software for BREC. The modernization of the existing software is ongoing, aimed at optimizing the control of the aircraft BREK, its subsystem, and increasing the capabilities for conducting electronic warfare.
- Trial operation of EA-18G. Flight tests of upgraded BREK and aircraft software are underway in various environmental conditions.
- Development of methods and tactics for using the EA-18G in the framework of possible future operations with the participation of the US Navy until 2030.

Within the PE "Developments in the field of electronic warfare" (Electronic Warfare Dev) track projects are financed. The purpose of this program is to develop and modernize the systems and means of electronic warfare of the US Navy and MP aviation, as well as to assess the degree of electronic protection of their RES of command and control of troops and weapons to effectively counter advanced enemy weapons operating in the electromagnetic spectrum.

Project 0556 provides for the modernization of electronic warfare systems and means for their effective functioning in complex electronic warfare, which is achieved through the use of modern and the development of new signal processing methods, information display technologies, increasing the capabilities of electronic warfare subsystems, and improving tactical methods of conducting electronic warfare.

The main efforts within the framework of this project are aimed at solving the following tasks:
- reducing the risks associated with the modernization of the "low-range" component of the tactical system REP AN / ALQ-99 ICAP III, testing this system in the laboratory;
- development of measures for effective counteraction to existing and prospective RES of command and control of troops and weapons;
- integration of electronic warfare systems into a single complex on board a specialized electronic warfare aircraft, improving the capabilities for detecting, identifying threats, automatically determining countermeasures and selective, targeted electronic warfare of individual RES in conditions of high density of their deployment in the combat zone.

As part of project 1742 the following work is underway:
- modernization of the ALQ-99 ICAP III electronic warfare system to the Block 7 version, including the integration of the ALQ-99 ICAP III electronic warfare system with the ALQ-113, RTR ALQ-218 electronic warfare systems and the equipment of the Link-16 information exchange and communication system;
- optimization of electronic warfare methods, which consists in the development of new tactics, algorithms for the use of electronic warfare and electronic warfare systems ALQ-99, USQ-113, ALQ-218, RTR system ALQ-227, electronic warfare consumables ejection machines ALE-43, MLC MALD and MALD- J and BLTs ALE-55 to improve the effectiveness of countering future threats in the radio range of electromagnetic waves.
- testing and evaluating the effectiveness of expendable electronic warfare equipment on F / A-18E / F aircraft.

aim project 2175 is the modernization of individual means of electronic warfare tactical aviation of the US Navy.

The IDECM (Integrated Defensive Electronic Countermeasures) Block 3 integrated electronic warfare system for aircraft personal protection was created as a result of the modernization of the IDECM Block 2 system. In particular, it was planned to replace the ALE-50 airborne false targets with a BLT made using fiber optic technologies FODT (Fiber Optic Towed Decoy) ALE-55. The functional combination of such BLTs with electronic warfare systems (ALQ-214, ALR-67 (V), ALE-47) can significantly increase the effectiveness of aircraft protection against guided weapons in a difficult electronic environment.

Within the framework of the project, measures are being taken to improve the integrated IDECM (Integrated Defense Electronic Countermeasures) personal protection electronic warfare system to the Block 4 modification. The main goal is its unification for various types carriers (F / A-18CD / E / F) and the replacement of obsolete AN / ALQ-126В electronic warfare systems on F / A-18C / D aircraft, which will significantly increase their survivability.

The project also continues to replace the BLTs ALE-50 with decoys using fiber-optic technologies FODT ALE-5 5.

Within the framework of the PE "Rep system of the next generation" (NGJ - Next Generation Jammer), funding is provided for two projects - 0557 and 3380 . Their ultimate goal is to develop new system REP to replace the existing ALQ-99 tactical system. The design of the new generation REP system should be modular, with an open architecture that allows for upgrades at minimal cost.

The implementation of both projects is designed to provide the ultimate capabilities of the next generation NGJ electronic warfare system to counter advanced threats in the radio frequency range. Its development involves three stages of capacity building, each of which has its own frequency range. The order is determined according to the priorities of countering the RES control of troops and weapons.

The priority is considered conditionally "medium range" (0.5-18 GHz), which corresponds to the first stage of capacity building in the development of the NGJ system. The second stage corresponds to the "low range" (0.1-0.5 GHz), the third - "high range" (presumably 18-40 GHz).

PE "Improvement of guided missiles" air - radar "HARM" (HARM Improvement) contains three projects.

Currently, the Air Force and the US Navy are armed with an anti-radar missile (PRLR) AGM-88С Block 5A (AGM-88D) with a combined homing system (inertial, with correction for the signals of the Navstar space radio navigation system (CRNS), passive radar) with launch range up to 100 km.

The missile modernization program provides for: increasing the launch range; expansion of the range of objects of destruction; increasing the accuracy and stability of targeting; testing of these missiles on real air defense systems of foreign countries purchased from organizations and partner countries.

As a result of work on the modernization of the AGM-88C missile of the air-to-radar class, it is planned to put into service in 2017-2020 the promising AGM-88E AARGM (Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile) with a combined homing system (inertial, with correction according to CRNS signals "Navstar", passive radar, active radar - millimeter wave).

It is expected that this missile will be capable of: targeting, including those that have stopped working on radiation, using active system homing, operating in the millimeter wavelength range in the final section of the flight path; accounting for all objects of destruction, known air defense systems, including promising ones; network target designation and guidance (the missile can be launched according to target designations of neighboring combat aircraft). PRLR launch range up to 150 km (further modernization of AGM-88E ER - Extended Range - up to 200 km; adoption in 2018-2020).

Within the PE "Technologies in the field of systems and means of electronic warfare" (Electronic Warfare Technology) research work is being carried out to create experimental models of technical means designed to determine the location, neutralize and functionally destroy enemy control and communication RES. At the same time, technologies are being developed that relate to both offensive electronic warfare equipment and aircraft personal protective equipment. At the same time, the issues of opening the electronic warfare equipment and electronic suppression of the radio electronic equipment for command and control of enemy troops and weapons are being considered in order to ensure the survivability of the electronic warfare aircraft.

Project K15 is aimed at developing experimental models of radio reconnaissance and electronic suppression of modern and advanced tactical communications and information and computer networks of the enemy, improving the collection and processing of intelligence through the use of air and ground systems and means, as well as the formation of target designations for remote RES. The main algorithm for the operation of systems and means is: interception - identification - location determination - radio suppression of enemy tactical communication systems.

Project K16 aimed at increasing the survivability of ground and air platforms ground forces USA. Within its framework, experimental models of RTR and EW equipment are being developed that provide detection, location determination, electronic suppression of radars and seekers of guided missiles of the ground-to-air and air-to-air classes, as well as radio fuses for remotely initiated ammunition. In this case, reconnaissance sensors of the radio and optical ranges, as well as active and passive electronic countermeasures, are used.

Activities carried out under the project include:
- Development of technologies for creating IR countermeasures with a distributed aperture; improvement of warning devices for laser and radar exposure; use of a promising two-band IR missile attack warning system, completion of the development of the hardware of a digital missile attack warning system.
- Development of individual electronic warfare equipment for the protection of air and ground platforms: modernization of broadband generators for new generation jamming transmitters with increased power, broadband receivers with an increased signal demodulation and data processing rate, as well as ensuring the electromagnetic compatibility of electronic warfare equipment (electronic warfare and communications) on board the carrier.
- Ensuring the maintenance of electronic warfare in a networked organization of systems and facilities. Detection, identification and location of sources of radio signals in order to ensure the protection of forces / troops.

Within the framework of these activities, new data processing algorithms are being developed, as well as the integration of intelligence information and the formation of maps into unified geolocation complexes.

On the whole, work is being actively carried out in the United States to create and unify modern multifunctional electronic warfare and electronic warfare equipment. The improved and created means will provide an effective solution of tasks within the framework of a single information and communication space and will be placed on all types of specialized air carriers - airplanes, helicopters and UAVs.

Captain 2nd rank V. Evgrafov,
candidate of technical sciences

Air-based electronic warfare equipment (EW) is subdivided into systems and means of group and individual protection (IS). All aircraft (LA) are equipped with IS systems designed to protect against surface-to-air and air-to-air missiles, and specialized aircraft designed for for solving electronic warfare tasks from the barrage zone or when following with a strike group.

In the process of forming a new structure of systems and means of air-based electronic warfare, tasks are being implemented to ensure the interaction of SSREB not between individual platforms, but directly between the means themselves. This, with an appropriate level of organization tied to intranetwork computing facilities, should make it possible to increase the efficiency of solving electronic warfare problems through the most optimal use of available resources.

Such an approach is being actively implemented in the US Armed Forces, on the example of which it is possible to identify the directions for the development of SSREB for various purposes, as well as the main forms of their application. During the first decade of the 21st century, various options for the formation of a new air-based SSREB structure were considered, including the creation of a new specialized EW aircraft and the use of EW unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) based on combat UAVs being developed,

Scheme of a phased change in the organization of the use of air-based REE systems and means

Views of the US military leadership on the formation of the air structure of electronic warfare systems and means, currently being implemented

The principle of operation of the system of optoelectronic countermeasures to missile attack type LAIRCM

US Air Force specialists put a lot of effort into creating a new specialized electronic warfare aircraft based on the B-52N strategic bomber, designed to solve electronic warfare tasks from the barrage zone, which have been assigned to the ES-130 Compass Call system for quite a long time. Work began in 2002, and three years later, in 2005, the program was closed due to cost overruns - the cost of the aircraft increased from 1 to 7 billion dollars.

In 2007, another attempt was made to create an aircraft based on the B-52H strategic bomber, leading electronic warfare from the loitering zone. As part of this work, a CCJ jamming station was created with a range of about 400 km. At the same time, the B-52H aircraft was considered as a demonstration platform, but in early 2009 the program was closed again.

After that, the US Air Force focused on the use of less expensive options that provide for the use of electronic warfare systems and means directly in the area of ​​combat missions.

The ES-130N "Compass Call" remains the only system in the US Armed Forces that operates from the barrage zone. To extend the life of its operation, a phased modernization is being carried out. During the modernization of the system, its capabilities expand - from suppressing networks of military control systems to suppressing cellular communication systems that can be used by terrorist groups.

The following additional tasks are considered:
- electronic jamming (REP) systems of shortwave, radio relay and satellite communications of military and state administration;
- REP detection radar meter and decimeter ranges from barrage zones;
- conducting radio and electronic intelligence in order to form real-time target designations on open communication centers and enemy radars for the use of systems and means of high-precision weapons of the air-to-ground and ground-to-ground classes.

In total, it is planned to have 12 modernized ES-130N Compass Call aircraft in service, which can be operated for at least another 10-15 years.

The solution of similar tasks in the interests of the British Armed Forces is assigned to the Nimrod Mk 1 aircraft, which are being replaced by the Mimrod Mk 4 modification.

Currently, in the United States, specialized electronic warfare aircraft that solve the tasks of group defense when flying with a strike group are the EA-6B Prowler aircraft, which is gradually being decommissioned, and the EA-18G Growler, which is going to replace it.

To extend the service life of the EA-6B aircraft, the ICAP III program is being implemented, the purpose of which is to improve the systems and means of opening the combat situation. It is noted that, in addition to suppressing the radar of enemy weapon control systems, all greater value in the list of tasks solved by the EA-6B aircraft, it is given to the suppression of communication radio-electronic systems (RES)) as well as to the issues of ensuring the security of coastal areas by suppressing ship navigation radars.

One of the main RES equipment within the framework of the ICAP III program is the AN / ALQ-218 digital radar signal receiver with a frequency range up to 20 GHz, which provides detection, identification and location of the radiation source.

AN / ALQ-218 is the first receiver that provides selective suppression of enemy radio equipment by a jamming station at specific frequencies and allows jamming radars with frequency hopping. It can be used to target anti-radar missiles of the AGM-88 HARM type.

The upgraded EA-6V Prowler EW aircraft may remain in service until 2018.

EW aircraft EA-18G "Growler" of the US Navy is designed for fire destruction and electronic warfare of ground and ship radars, as well as radio communication networks and radio control lines of enemy air defense systems when it is located mainly in combat formations. The aircraft has greater maneuverability than the EA-6B Prowler. It can successfully fly with a strike group consisting of F/A-18, F-16 and F-15E fighters.

The EA-18G electronic warfare aircraft, like the EA-6B, will be equipped (after minor modifications) with hardware and software created under the ICAP III program. It is capable of carrying up to five containers with simultaneously operating AN / ALQ-99 jamming stations. However, in conventional equipment, the EA-18G will be equipped with two containers with jamming stations, an external fuel tank, an AGM-88 HARM anti-radar missile and an AIM-120C AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missile.

Instead of the AN/USQ-1I3 communication radio interference station, which is used on the EA-6B aircraft, the AN/ALQ-227 station is installed on the EA-18G. It is a separate receiver, not a receiver with jammers like the AN/USQ-113.

The transmitters of the new containerized jamming station will use solid state elements instead of traveling wave tubes. In addition, it will be connected to two antenna devices, which will allow more efficient control of the RES suppression modes.

The developers are solving the issue of using the AN / ALQ-214 on-board jamming signal generator to suppress the enemy's electronic equipment while simultaneously using the radar with the AN / APG-79 (V) AFAR.

The EA-18G, as well as the EA-6B, will be equipped with advanced communication systems. The terminal of the multifunctional information distribution system MIDS must provide retargeting for a coordinated attack by several combat platforms (manned and UAVs). Integration of line-of-sight communications systems "Link-16" / multifunctional information distribution system MIDS with a promising multi-purpose tactical satellite terminal MATT is designed to provide a high degree situational awareness. The combined use of MIDS, MATT and AN / ALQ-218 systems will provide situational discovery and information exchange capabilities that are not comparable to the capabilities of earlier specialized electronic warfare platforms.

One of the main improvements in the field of electronic warfare equipment of the EA-18G aircraft compared to the EA-6B will be the presence of the INCANS interference cancellation system. which will make it possible to interpret up to 85% of the onboard communications equipment when jamming the enemy's electronic equipment (the use of communication systems in the suppression mode on the EA-6V was a difficult problem).

Between 2013 and 2015, the US Navy plans to acquire about 90 EA-18G Growlers.
UAVs in service and promising, fighters, bombers and transport aviation aircraft can be equipped with EW systems in a container design for solving IZ tasks. The advantage of such systems will be the possibility of their use on aircraft to solve specific problems. The disadvantage of container systems remains a possible increase in the unmasking signs of an aircraft and a decrease in its maneuverability. The emergence of new containers is possible in 2012.

The US Air Force Research Laboratory is conducting research into a new generation of jamming stations that can operate with maximum efficiency in today's complex electronic environment. The efforts of the developers are aimed at implementing the capabilities of selective suppression of enemy electronic systems and means ("cognitive suppression"). At the same time, special attention is paid to the development of appropriate software. New jamming stations should ensure the suppression of a wide range of enemy RES (communications, navigation, radar, etc.) using modern means and methods of electronic protection "at the same time without disrupting the functioning of the RES of their own and allied forces, as well as civilian RES.

In order to create new sensors, a contract worth $ 2.45 million was awarded to the appropriate department of the US Air Force Research Laboratory for a period of up to six years. During this time, the hardware and software of new jamming stations should be created for further testing in conditions , as close as possible to combat.

Such jamming stations can be installed both on specialized EW aircraft and on conventional strategic and tactical aircraft to provide IS.

Almost all aerial platforms are currently equipped with systems and personal protective equipment. The most modern integrated IS systems include the AN / ALR-94 system of the F / A-22 fighter and the EW system of the US F-35 fighter.

The AN / ALR-94 is equipped with a set of common antennas that perform functions determined by operational requirements, and it is also possible to reprogram it during flight. The use of common antennas is a promising technology. The result obtained can be manifested in the use of the same antennas for various purposes (up to ten functions per antenna). Ultimately, to solve all the problems of communication, navigation, identification of "friend or foe", radar detection and electronic warfare, about five antennas will be required instead of 20-25, as on a conventional combat aircraft.

The solution to the problem of electronic warfare with the help of UAVs is directed against the enemy's radar and its control and communication systems. For this, it was originally planned to use two types of means: false targets (LC) of the ADM-160 MALD type, specially equipped UAVs. The latter meant the use of combat UAVs developed in the US Air Force and Navy, equipped with appropriate electronic warfare equipment. But later, to set up electronic interference in the immediate vicinity of the enemy's RES, it was decided to use the L Ts, in particular MALD-J, equipped with a jamming transmitter

It is supposed to use the ADM-I60 MALD LC from B-1B, B-2A, B-52H, F-15, F-16, F-35 and F / A-22 aircraft. as well as from combat UAVs. The B-52N strategic bomber on external slings will be able to carry up to 16 laser points, the F-16 fighter - four.

An analogue of the LC ADM-160 MALD is ITALD (ADM-14 / C), developed jointly by the American company Northrop-Grumman and the Israeli IMI for the US Navy. It is designed to generate signals identical to the signatures of the protected platform.

The ITALD LC is an upgraded version of the TALD LC used in Iraq (ADM-141). The flight path is laid down in the program, and navigation support is provided by means of the global positioning system GPST of the inertial system and a radar altimeter. The principle of using "fire and forget". The composition of the REP equipment may vary depending on the tasks to be solved. It is possible to use a system of optoelectronic suppression.

The issue of installing the ITALD LC in the British Air Force on GR-7/9 Harrier attack aircraft and in the Australian Air Force on F-18 Hornet fighters is being considered.

The main directions for further modernization of the ITALD LC are: increasing the maneuverability, flight range and efficiency of ECM measures. The possibility of using a reduced model of a false target on a UAV is being investigated.

Complexes of towed LC in the next 10-15 years will continue to be actively developed in such states as the USA, Germany, Great Britain, Sweden. The power of the signals emitted by these targets can exceed 4 kW. One of the factors limiting the spread of towed LC complexes in the world arms market is the lack of a single standard. For example, LC "Ariel" (Great Britain) and AN / ALE-55 (USA) have different sizes, which does not allow them to be placed on the same launcher.

Towed by a fiber-optic cable, radar LCs are the main means of protecting the European EF2000 fighter from monopulse tracking radars. Used LC "Ariel" not only provide repetition of the received signals. With the help of systems and means of electronic support, a threat is detected, its location is determined, identification is made, and a suppression signal is generated on board the aircraft. Then it is converted into a modulated laser pulse and transmitted via a 100-m cable to a LC equipped with a transmitter.

The power of the emitted LC signal is regulated depending on the power of the radar signal and the effective scattering area of ​​the aircraft, which change depending on the angle. Those radars that use the tracking method during the scanning process are not able to distinguish a false target from a real one.

Further development of active LCs towed using a fiber-optic cable is associated with the implementation in them of the possibility of switching the radiation pattern, correlated jamming from an aircraft and the LC towed by it.

In addition to integrated electronic warfare systems, which are being developed in parallel with the carrier aircraft, complexes are currently being created for aircraft that have been in operation for a long time. An example of such work is the IDECM RF FM complex, originally developed for the US Navy F / A-18E / F carrier-based attack aircraft, as well as AN / ALQ-211 SIRFC for US Army helicopters.

The results of the analysis of hostilities in Iraq and Afghanistan have made significant changes in the views of the military leadership on the use of electronic warfare systems and means. To a large extent, this raised the issue of increasing the level of protection of helicopters.

On combat helicopters and support helicopters, the use of an integrated IS system is becoming standard, including warning systems for radar and laser radiation, missile launch, systems for ejecting consumable LCs in the radar and infrared ranges, and an infrared jamming station.

To counter threats in the IR range, US and UK firms, such as Easterline and Chemring, have expanded the production of basic magnesium-teflon-viton (MTV) IR LCs, in particular M206 and 118MTV, and advanced ones, such as pyrophoric M21L kinematic M2I2 and de-banded M118. These types of LC in the next few years will form the basis of helicopters from portable anti-aircraft weapons systems in the IR range.

One of the wishes of helicopter crews is to reduce the number of types of IR LCs by increasing their degree of versatility. Currently, warning systems do not provide proper identification of threats, which entails the simultaneous use of different LCs.

The air forces of such states as the USA, Great Britain, Israel and a number of others, laser countermeasures in the infrared range are installed on helicopters. Over the past 20 years, technologies for the production of such systems have come a long way - from the use of flash lamps to more efficient and reliable multi-band laser sources. Although it was previously believed that laser systems would replace IR lasers with their ejection devices, at present the latter continue to be actively used.

The main factor stimulating the development of aviation systems and countermeasures in the infrared range is the presence in the world of a large number of weapons with thermal homing systems.

The current generation of US countermeasure systems in the infrared range include the following: AN / ALQ-212 (V) ATIRCM, the optical-electronic countermeasures (OEP) system for tactical aircraft TADIRCM and the unified missile attack warning system AN / AAR-57 (V ) CMWS. The AN/AAQ-24 "Nemesis" and LA1RCM OEP systems for large aircraft are widely used.

Improving OED systems involves the use of a multi-band laser facility, as well as the miniaturization of the hardware.

Thus, work continues to form a unified structure of airborne electronic warfare systems and means. The leadership in this matter remains with the United States. In other leading foreign countries, the same direction of the main efforts is observed. A feature of the structure being created will be to ensure the possibility of the integrated use of electronic warfare equipment deployed on various platforms, both manned and unmanned. This requires integration into a single information and communication space, as well as the improvement of computing systems, in particular, through the use of new software.

One of the key directions in the development of equipment designed for jamming is to provide the possibility of selective suppression of RES.

In addition, the possibilities for the use of REB equipment with other operating REFs on board the carrier are being explored. All new SSREB models and methods of their use are tested in real combat conditions in zones of armed conflicts, which stimulates work on their further development.

foreign military review. - 2011. - No. 2. - S. 60-65

Combat operations in modern conditions are not only shooting from weapons, but also the impact on enemy military equipment with electronic means. For the first time such an attempt was successfully made on April 15, 1904 by acting. Commander of the Pacific Squadron, Vice Admiral P.P. Ukhtomsky. 112 years have passed since that moment, and during this time, of course, not only the tasks have changed, but also the means of electronic warfare. Industry experts told the website of the Zvezda TV channel about what weapons are already in service with the Russian army and what electronic warfare systems are being developed. In this case, the simplest radio stations were used. Since that moment, only the principle has not changed - interference in the radio channel, but the means of jamming and the means of countering them have been seriously developed. Today Russian army receives the most modern means of electronic intelligence, interference and suppression of enemy weapons. Last year alone, the Russian Armed Forces received nine Moscow-1 electronic intelligence stations, 10 Rychag-AV jamming helicopters, eight electronic intelligence and suppression stations " Krasukha-2", 15 sets of the Krasukha-4 reconnaissance and suppression station and 20 sets of the Rtut-BM electronic intelligence and protection station. The Radioelectronic Technologies Concern, which is the developer and supplier of electronic warfare equipment, already this year handed over to the Russian Ministry of Defense several Khibiny complexes of a stackable composition for the Su-34, which allow turning this fighter-bomber into a full-fledged electronic warfare aircraft capable of protecting not only itself, but the entire air group. “We proceed from the concept of universality - that is, if necessary, in any airfield tactical aviation aircraft can be retrofitted necessary means for conducting electronic warfare. It is cheaper and very effective,” the KRET press service said. The Su-34 can be used as a full-fledged jammer, unlike the American counterpart F-15E, which takes on board only personal protective equipment capable of breaking through any air defense system. At the same time, the Khibiny surpass the American counterpart in key characteristics. "Blind" adversary It should be noted that electronic warfare equipment is also effective when installed on helicopters. In April 2016, the Western Military District received two Mi-8 MTPR-1 helicopters equipped with unique Rychag-AV jamming stations. (hyperlink) These systems are capable of completely blinding the enemy within a radius of several hundred kilometers, thus providing group protection for aircraft, helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, ground equipment and ships from enemy air attacks and air defense strikes. At the same time, a database of different means threats to covered objects, which allows it to determine the type of target and select the most effective interference for it. optimal effect on it.
It is worth noting that this year the KRET concern is completing the development of the Rychag-AVM helicopter advanced electronic warfare system, which will begin to enter the troops in 2017. technical characteristics surpasses all analogues existing in the world, ”the press service told the website of the Zvezda TV channel. Promising electronic warfare To deprive the enemy of communication means to sow chaos in his ranks. And the fighters of the electronic warfare units are able to do this perfectly. They regularly work out tasks to suppress enemy cellular and short-wave communications. In real combat conditions, this can be of tremendous importance. For example, enemy fire spotters will not be able to send coordinates to their aviation and artillery units by mobile phone. The day before, electronic warfare fighters in the Khabarovsk Territory covered an area of ​​hundreds of kilometers with a dome of electromagnetic waves. This made powerless not only aviation, but also space satellites of a mock enemy.
The new ground-based station, which KRET is currently working on, will be able to protect all types and types of Russian troops from high-precision weapons, including aerospace-based attack weapons. The press service does not disclose data on a new serious project, stipulating that development work is underway on it, which will be completed next year. In general, the development of new communications and electronic warfare in Russia is given great attention. For these purposes, the United Instrument-Making Corporation is creating a whole production cluster in the Tambov region. “A single management is being formed for all scientific and production structures, the task of which is to build on their basis an advanced defense cluster in the field of communications and electronic warfare, operating on the principle of a “single conveyor””, - the OPK report says. Electronic warfare equipment and equipment were produced and continue to be produced by the factories of the Tambov group: Oktyabr, Revtrud, Tambovapparat and the Tambov Research Institute of Radio Engineering Efir. Each enterprise will take its place in the overall technological chain - from the development of prototypes of equipment to its testing and mass production. This will avoid internal competition and ensure full utilization of production capacities. In turn, the Radioelectronic Technologies Concern (KRET) began preparations for serial production strapdown inertial navigation system (SINS) for aviation and ground vehicles. “In 2017, we plan to complete this project, the cost of which is about 12–14 billion rubles,” the press service of KRET told the website of the Zvezda TV channel. navigation with high accuracy even without communication with satellites. “First of all, they are needed for military equipment, but in recent times these systems have become increasingly installed on board civilian airliners and drones. The demand for these systems in the world today is very high,” commented KRET. In particular, the promising platform "BINS-2015", which has been developed over the past two years, is planned to be installed on MS-21 aircraft and for advanced unmanned aerial vehicles. Electronic warfare equipment for export Recall that, according to the instruction of the President of Russia, the modernization of the equipment of the Russian troops will be basically completed by 2020. This, of course, does not mean that after 2020 there will be no state defense order, but its volume will decrease significantly. In this regard, the Russian defense industry will have to level the negative impact of these changes. And this work is already underway. In particular, the vector of the main efforts of the KRET concern will shift towards exports and increasing the production of civilian products. “The share of exports today is about 18%. By 2017, we expect to bring this share up to about 25%. For this, we have to do a lot of work,” the press service of the concern said.
Apart from avionics, which is supplied abroad as part of Russian military and civil aircraft and helicopters, KRET supplies to foreign partners export modifications complexes "Khibiny" and "President-S". These are Krasukha-2, Krasukha-4 and Moscow-1. They have export passports, and we can supply this equipment to the foreign market through the military-technical cooperation,” the press service commented. In this regard, the market for civilian products is receiving more and more attention. KRET has a huge amount of developments that can be transferred to the civil sphere. In recent years, the Russian defense complex has been working to systematize these developments and transform them into finished products for the market.

5. Electronic warfare (EW)

5.1. General characteristics of electronic warfare

The following electronic warfare equipment is used on the A-10 aircraft: AN / ALQ-119 active radio jamming station, AN / ALQ-132 active infrared jamming station, AR / ALE-40 electronic warfare ejection device, AN / ALR-46 direct electronic intelligence systems .

In addition, the AN / ALQ-133 ELINT detailed electronic reconnaissance system is installed on some of the aircraft, the information from which is transmitted to ground command posts or strike group aircraft and is used in the interests of electronic warfare. It is assumed that about 20% of A-10 aircraft will be equipped with individual active jamming stations placed in overhead containers.

EW equipment is controlled automatically or by the pilot in manual mode.

On the two-seat version of the N / AW A-10 aircraft, the electronic warfare tasks will be solved by the operator located in the rear cockpit.

5.2. Stations of active jamming (SAP)

The aircraft is equipped with one or two suspended KVN-tainers of the AN /ALQ-119(V) active radio jamming station, which can be replaced by the more modern AN/ALQ-131, as well as the IR-band EPS - AN/ALQ-132.

Currently, the 10th and 12th modifications of the station are used - AN /ALQ-119 (V) 10 and AN / ALQ-119 (V) l2. The main purpose of the AN / ALQ-119 station is to suppress ground-based radio-electronic means (RES) of weapon control (missile guidance stations, target tracking, gun guidance) and radar homing missiles.

The modular design container accommodates 3 jamming transmitters operating in the 1550-5200, 3900-6200 and 6200-10900 MHz bands. The indicated figures characterize the boundaries of the ranges, and not the exact values ​​of the tuning frequencies of the jamming transmitters.

Simultaneously emitted masking and simulating interference in one or two (out of three) frequency ranges. The power spectral density of noise masking interference can reach 20÷30 W/MHz.

Depending on the situation, you can change the direction of radiation "back and forth" by connecting the appropriate antennas. The station applies limited interference power control depending on the degree of threat posed by the suppressed RES.

The purpose of the AN / ALQ-132 IR SAP is to protect the aircraft from air-to-air and ground-to-air missiles with an IR homing head.

The source of IR radiation from the container is a membrane heated by burning aviation fuel in the chamber. After modulation by a rotating obturator, the system emits a sequence of IR pulses, the intensity of which exceeds the radiation intensity of the two engines of the A-10 aircraft.

5.3. EW ejection devices

The main EW ejection device of the A-10 aircraft is the AN/ALE-40 system. In addition, in one of the design variants of the combat load, the suspension of bomb clusters with electronic warfare equipment is used: 16 CBU-70 or 10 CBU-38.

For the A-10 aircraft, a special version of the AN / ALE-40 (V) 10 ejection device has been developed, which has the largest capacity of 480 rounds among all devices of this type.

In the AN / ALE-40 (V) 10 version, cassettes are used inside the fuselage, which are located at the ends of the wing and in the landing gear niches. The total number of cassettes is 16. The capacity of each of them is 30 cartridges with chaff (DO) or 30 IR cartridges.

When equipping the ejection device, various combinations of cartridges of both types are possible.

The control of firing cartridges from DO and IR cartridges is independent. Intervals for shooting cartridges with DO - 0.1; 0.2; 0.3; 0.4 s; IR cartridges - 3; four; 6; eight; 10 Seconds. It is also possible salvo shooting cartridges with chaff with a constant or variable firing interval.

5.4. Means of direct electronic intelligence

The aircraft uses 2 types of direct electronic reconnaissance means (NRER): a system for warning about exposure and controlling the operation of the EPS, as well as a detailed electronic reconnaissance system.

The first of them (currently AN / ALR-46, later - AN / ALR-69) is installed on each aircraft, the second (AN / ALQ-133) - on one aircraft from the strike group. AN / ALR-46 is a digital system capable of analyzing the electronic situation, determining the type of irradiating radio electronic equipment and assessing the degree of threat to the protected aircraft. The system has the following characteristics:

• reconnaissance frequency range 2÷18 GHz;
• processing speed of received signals - over 80,000 pulses per second;
• the number of RES evaluated simultaneously - 16;
• the total number of RES, the characteristics of which are in the system memory, is up to 130.

Along with determining the parameters of the irradiating signal and the type of RES, the system carries out direction finding of the radiation source.

Data from the processor of the system is received to control the SAP, the ejection device, as well as to the pilot in sound and visual form in order to warn him about the opening of fire, the direction of attack, etc. It is also possible to transmit data to capture the RES signal by the homing head of the air-to-radar missile.

The main purpose of the system is to determine the characteristics of pulse radars, however, modifications make it possible to work with continuous signals, as well as with signals of lower frequencies (up to 500 MHz).

5.5. AN / ALQ-133 detailed electronic intelligence system (ELINT)

The ELINT system is designed for reconnaissance of radar and navigation systems, command communication lines, weapons control and guidance (radio, infrared, laser) and other enemy systems. Aircraft A-10, equipped with the ELINT system, determine the location of the radar and air defense systems, their modes of operation and the degree of danger, and are also used to destroy the RES detected by the system.

The reconnaissance information is sent to the ground data collection point and to other aircraft that do not have such a system, for target designation of air-to-radar missiles. Data is transmitted over a telecode communication system at a rate of 6000-12000 messages per second.

Signals are received both in the 2-18 GHz range and in the region of higher frequencies (up to the submillimeter wave range).

Frequency intelligence method - search. The frequency tuning period is 0.01 s (tuning in 0.005 s is also possible).

The accuracy of determining the pulse duration is 0.1 microseconds, and determining the pulse repetition period for a burst of pulses is 0.1 microseconds, for a pair - 1 microseconds. Direction finding accuracy 0.5° in ±45° sector. Direction finding is also possible in the ±60° sector with less accuracy.

The system is placed in three containers with a total weight of 540 kg, placed on the A-10 aircraft under the fuselage (one) and at the ends of the wing (two).

Analysis of armed conflicts of the late XX - early XXI centuries. shows that electronic warfare(electronic warfare, or in Western terminology, electronic warfare) is becoming one of the key elements of modern warfare. Organizationally, electronic warfare is one of the components of information operations.

The essence of electronic warfare is to temporarily or permanently reduce the effectiveness of the use of enemy reconnaissance means, weapons, military equipment by electronic or fire suppression (destruction) of its electronic equipment, control systems, reconnaissance, communications. Thus, electronic warfare can include both temporary disruption of the operation of enemy electronic systems by jamming, and the complete destruction of these systems (fire damage or capture). EW also includes measures for electronic protection (REZ) of its information systems and electronic intelligence.

The saturation of the modern battlefield with information systems determines the extremely important role of electronic warfare in modern and future wars. The experience of recent military exercises has shown that even if one of the opposing sides has an overwhelming superiority in high-precision weapons, it cannot be guaranteed victory if its control structures are suppressed by electronic warfare.

The objects of the main impact during EW operations are:

• elements of command and control systems for troops and weapons;
• means of intelligence;
• systems of storage, processing and distribution of information;
• radio electronic means;
• automated systems, databases and computer networks;
• personnel involved in decision-making and management processes.

The increasing role of electronic warfare in modern warfare is determined by two factors.

First, an increase in the scale and depth of operations, the saturation of troops modern means automation, control and intelligence led to a sharp increase in the share of supporting forces in operations. According to Western experts, in modern combat operations, about 2/3 of all forces solve the tasks of reconnaissance, control, electronic warfare, support, etc.

Secondly, the increase in the capabilities of the forces and means of electronic warfare to influence systems combat control enemy. Modern systems Electronic warfare systems are very versatile: they can be used to the depth of both a single combat operation and the entire theater of war, at any time of the day, use lethal and non-lethal weapons, operate as part of various multi-purpose integrated systems (combat control, communications, computer support for intelligence, fire defeat, combat enemy combat control systems), provide comprehensive protection for their control systems and even use enemy computer networks in their own interests.

Now the further improvement of technical means and methods of electronic warfare is proceeding very rapidly. First of all, this concerns the armed forces of the United States and Great Britain. The armed forces of these countries and the NATO Allied Forces have a well-established methodology for the simultaneous or staged strikes against the enemy using fire weapons, electronic warfare, strategic and tactical camouflage, disinformation and psychological warfare.

EW DEVELOPMENT IN THE ARMED FORCES OF NATO COUNTRIES

In the mid 80s. of the last century, the US Armed Forces and NATO Allied Forces developed the concept of "combat countermeasures against communication and control systems" (Command, Control, Communications Countermeasure, CCCCM). In the early 90s. on its basis, the concept of combating combat control systems was developed. At the same time, the creation of an integrated system of combat control, intelligence, communications, computer support and electronic warfare began. As the forces and means of electronic warfare developed, a new type of information warfare operations emerged - "network warfare" or "cyber warfare", that is, the disorganization of enemy combat control systems through the impact on his computer, local and global computer networks.

The development of electronic warfare in the US Armed Forces and NATO Allied Forces can be divided into three stages.

First stage- until 1980, when electronic warfare played a small role in hostilities. EW operations were of a supportive nature and consisted of jamming enemy reconnaissance and communications equipment, as well as simulating the operation of various electronic equipment in order to mislead the enemy about the real combat situation.

Second phase– 1980-1993 Creation of the concept of the integrated use of forces and means of electronic warfare to influence the enemy's combat control and communications systems. It implied the coordinated use of electronic countermeasures, reconnaissance, disinformation and fire damage to combat enemy electronic systems. However, the imperfection of automation equipment, the low bandwidth of communication channels and the lack of an integrated command and control system did not allow using the full potential of electronic warfare in combat operations.

Nevertheless, already during the electronic warfare, she played one of the key roles. Here, electronic warfare was used within the framework of a single concept worked out by the American troops during the Green Flag exercises.

In particular, a day before the start of the air offensive operation of the anti-Iraqi coalition, ground-based electronic warfare systems of the allies began jamming Iraqi communication channels. The operation itself began with an attack by American helicopters on two Iraqi air defense early warning stations. This created a hole in the Iraqi air defense, into which aircraft immediately rushed to strike at targets in Iraq. In the early days of the air operation, American F-4G aircraft with HARM high-precision anti-radar missiles, as well as EF-111 electronic warfare aircraft, which “blinded” Iraqi radar stations with interference, were actively used to suppress Iraqi air defenses. At the same time, American reconnaissance aircraft RC-135, TR-1 and E-8 took tight control air space Iraq. Having lost their “eyes” in the form of radars, Iraqi ground-based air defense systems and fighter aviation were completely blinded and disorganized, and within a few days they ceased to represent a real fighting force.

During the ground offensive, the EW of the US ground forces ensured the suppression of Iraqi radio networks to the depth of the division.

Third stage development of electronic warfare began in 1993 and continues to the present. An operational-strategic theory of "information warfare" was created. Technical means Electronic warfare has been significantly improved: their automation has been completed; integrated communications, intelligence, control and electronic warfare complexes were created; the creation of promising types of non-lethal electronic warfare weapons using electromagnetic (for example, the American U-bomb tested in 1999 during the war against Yugoslavia; when this bomb explodes, a powerful electromagnetic pulse, striking radio-electronic control, reconnaissance and communications devices in large radius), and other types of energy; ensuring user access at the tactical level to global databases, issuing target designations to weapons and electronic warfare equipment in near real time.

Thus, if at the first stage EW was one of the types of support for strike forces, at the second stage it was an integral part of the combat operations of each type of armed forces, then at the third stage it was a component of information warfare and one of the components of military potential.

EW DEVELOPMENT IN THE ARMED FORCES OF RUSSIA

AT Russian electronic warfare has a long history. For the first time, the suppression of enemy radio networks by interference to disrupt the coordination of artillery fire was successfully used by Russian signalmen as early as 1904. Also during the First World War, Russian radio communications were used to interfere with the operation of German radio networks.

During the Great Patriotic War EW was already carried out on an ongoing basis. On December 16, 1942, the State Defense Committee of the USSR issued a resolution "On the organization in the Red Army of a special service for driving German radio stations operating on the battlefield." In pursuance of this resolution, the head of the General Staff, Deputy People's Commissar of Defense of the USSR A.M. Vasilevsky the next day issued a directive "On the formation ad hoc group and special divisions of radio interference. A special term is introduced - "RPD" (electronic suppression).

After the war, there was a rapid improvement in radio communications, radar and airborne radars of aircraft and ships, and the creation of missiles with radar homing heads. At the same time, it became necessary both to reduce the effectiveness of the use of weapons and electronic systems of the enemy, and to protect their radio networks and electronic systems from suppression. For this, the 1950s special electronic warfare equipment is being developed and delivered to the troops: radio interference transmitters, dipole and corner reflectors. For the purpose of the qualified use of electronic warfare equipment in the Soviet army, during the same period, a special service electronic warfare.

In the future, to equip EW units, protect aircraft, helicopters, ships, tanks and other military equipment, automated EW systems began to be created, including reconnaissance equipment, jamming in various wavebands and equipment for analysis, information processing and control.

In 1962, the term "BRESP" (fighting by electronic means of suppression) was introduced, and the electronic warfare service began to be designated by the same term. Among the tasks of the BRESP service were nuclear and fire damage, electronic suppression and capture of enemy electronic objects ( command posts, communication centers, radar, etc.). At the same time, there was a certain discrepancy between the tasks and capabilities of the BRESP units: they only had the means of jamming, but not of fire destruction and capture of enemy targets. These tasks were under the jurisdiction of the operational departments of the headquarters.

Since the early 1960s new powerful means of fire destruction of radio-electronic objects appeared - missiles that aim at radio emission. In 1963, the US Armed Forces received an aircraft missile of the "air" development class - "radar" "Shrike". Similar models of weapons are being created in the USSR: in 1965, the KSR-11 missile entered service with the Soviet Long-Range Aviation, in 1968 - Kh-22P, and in 1972 front-line aviation received the Kh-28P missile. The adoption of these missiles was very relevant for the reason that Soviet aircraft jamming stations were significantly inferior to American ones in terms of power, frequency range and speed, and fire damage to enemy radars could compensate for this shortcoming.

In 1969, the term "EW" was introduced, which is used in the Russian Armed Forces to this day. Accordingly, the BRESP bodies were transformed into an electronic warfare service, which, in addition to the functions of electronic warfare, was also entrusted with the tasks of ensuring the electromagnetic compatibility of electronic systems in order to ensure stable command and control of troops and weapons. True, in 1976, instead of electronic warfare, the term EPD (“electronic suppression”) was introduced, but it did not take root, and in 1977 was again replaced by electronic warfare.

In order to conduct research and train qualified personnel in the field of electronic warfare, an extensive network of scientific centers and educational institutions was created in the USSR. In 1960, the leading institute for electronic warfare was established - 21 Research Institutes (now 5 Central Research Institutes). Specialized departments and laboratories were created at research institutes, at training grounds and at centers for the combat use of weapons and military equipment of the branches of the Armed Forces. In the interests of electronic warfare, specialists from such institutions as 30 Central Research Institute of the Ministry of Defense, State Scientific Research Institute of the Air Force, 4 PPI and PLS of front-line aviation, 43 PPI of Long-Range Aviation, Air Force Engineering Academy. N.E. Zhukovsky.

In 1980, the Voronezh Higher Military Engineering School of Radio Electronics (later - the Voronezh Military Institute of Radio Electronics - VIRE) was established, which trains qualified technical specialists in the field of electronic warfare. A number of military universities were also created, graduating specialists in the field of electronic warfare in Kyiv, Kharkov, Minsk, Riga, etc., however, after the collapse of the USSR, their potential was lost for Russia. In fact, WIRE remained the only specialized Russian military university graduating EW specialists for the army. However, in 2006 this educational institution for unknown reasons, it was attached as an electronic warfare faculty to the Voronezh Military Aviation University.

The training of junior EW specialists for all types and branches of the troops, reserve officers, as well as foreign cadets is carried out in the Tambov Interspecific training center(TMUC), founded in 1962.

Soviet EW specialists gained practical experience during the wars in Korea, the Middle East and Afghanistan.

During the first Chechen campaign, the fighting in Dagestan and the subsequent counter-terrorist operation on the territory of the Chechen Republic, Russian electronic warfare units took an active part in the hostilities.

The illegal armed formations on the territory of Chechnya created an extensive control and communications system, including cellular, trunk, radio relay, shortwave and ultrashortwave, cable and satellite communications. The tasks of the Russian electronic warfare units were to open and suppress the communication systems of illegal armed formations, as well as to collect information through radio intelligence about the number and location of militant detachments, the plans of the Chechen command, etc.

The actions of the electronic warfare forces gave nice results. Often, during radio communications, the militants themselves indicated the location of their bases, accumulations of manpower, etc. These data were immediately implemented Russian troops in the form of artillery and air strikes on the indicated places. Here is just one episode.

03/20/1995. From the radio interception of the conversations of the Chechen commanders:

"- Where are you?

We are coming to you.

Tell the guys to drive through the Mesker-Yurt intersection and come to us.”

The accumulation of militants and equipment in the area of ​​the indicated intersection was hit by artillery, as a result of which 2 armored personnel carriers and two vehicles with militants were destroyed.

During the assault on Grozny in the period from December 10 to 20, 1999, electronic warfare units completely revealed the defense system and the number of enemy forces defending the southeast of the city only through radio reconnaissance. By such actions, electronic warfare specialists greatly facilitated the conduct of operations by strike units and helped save many lives. Russian soldiers. Being under constant pressure from electronic warfare, detachments of Chechen fighters gradually lost control and coordination of actions, which played an important role in the outcome of hostilities on the territory of the Chechen Republic.

During the "five-day war" with Georgia, the Russian EW forces also acted quite successfully. According to the Latvian military expert, brigadier general of the reserve Karlis Krustinles: “Georgia has problems both with air defense, and with the interconnection of departments. There were situations when combat units communicated with each other using messengers, because any communication stopped working. The Russian army prepared in advance to suppress not only electronic communications and radars, but also ordinary telephone communications.

Opposition was also conducted to electronic intelligence conducted from NATO ships in the Black Sea.

In the "five-day war" it became obvious that the issue of advantage in an air war is largely a matter of electronic warfare. As it turned out, in the first days of the war, the electronic warfare in the Russian group was not very well established. The forces of radio and electronic intelligence of the Russian Air Force were transferred to the GRU General Staff. However, the latter provided virtually no assistance to the air force, as a result of which they did not have reliable information about the location. Aircraft participating in hostilities did not fully meet the requirements of electronic protection against air defense systems. All this led to losses in aviation from anti-aircraft fire, including the most painful - the Tu-22M3 long-range bomber.

After the shock of the first losses, representatives of the Air Force High Command intervened, who developed recommendations for the crews of aircraft and helicopters participating in combat missions. A significant place in them was given to electronic protection measures. In particular, not to use in combat operations aircraft that did not have individual electronic warfare equipment, to exit the attack with Su-25 aircraft during the massive shooting of heat traps, to use strike aircraft only under the cover of group means of protection by electronic warfare aircraft and helicopters. After that, the losses in aviation ceased. However, according to experts, the Russian Air Force has serious gaps in the field of electronic warfare, both in terms of personnel training and technical equipment, and in a collision with really strong air defense, losses would be many times higher.

In 2009, units and subunits of electronic warfare were transformed into a separate type of troops. Armed Forces RF, which includes formations, units and subunits of electronic warfare as part of operational-strategic commands.

According to O. Ivanov, the former commander of the EW troops, today the effect of EW means is becoming comparable to the use of modern high-precision weapons, and in some respects even surpasses it. At the same time, Russian electronic warfare systems are not inferior to foreign counterparts. In addition to the modernization of existing ones, new multifunctional complexes are being created, some of which can be attributed to technological breakthroughs. According to O. Ivanov, great opportunities are now opening up for electronic warfare. True, he himself, which is strange, in July 2011 voluntarily resigned from the post of commander of the EW troops at the age of 45, when, it would seem, great prospects for successful career and professional growth opened up. According to some experts, among the reasons for the resignation is disagreement with the provisions of the military reform being carried out in Russia, in particular, with the introduction of a new electronic automated command and control system for troops ESU TK, which the military criticizes for numerous shortcomings laid down at the level of the terms of reference.

GOALS, OBJECTIVES AND MEANS OF EW

The goals for electronic warfare in modern war become not only the disorganization of the enemy's combat command and control systems, but also depriving him of the opportunity to use information about the combat situation, ensuring that the enemy is preempted in making combat decisions, and reducing his losses during combat operations.

In accordance with the views of the American command, the main element of electronic warfare is an electronic attack using ground-based and air-based electronic warfare, as well as portable and thrown behind enemy lines.

Means of electronic attack are conditionally divided into two types: non-destructive and destructive impact.

Non-destructive - these are means of electronic interference, electronic disinformation, infrared countermeasures (false thermal targets and stationary generators of pulsating infrared interference designed to combat air-to-air and ground-to-air missiles equipped with infrared homing heads). The tasks of these means: suppression or incapacitation of radio-electronic or opto-electronic systems, reconnaissance, communications, navigation means; imitation of the operation of radio-electronic systems in order to mislead the enemy; overloading enemy communications systems; impact on its personnel serving radio-electronic systems or participating in command and control processes.

Destructive means are means of directed energy ( electromagnetic weapon), high-precision weapons and ammunition with homing heads for electronic radiation.

It is worth dwelling on the weapon of directed energy in a little more detail. These systems are also called magnetrons, and in Western terminology - active electronically scanned arrays (AESA). This weapon affects the electronic systems of enemy equipment with microwave waves, disabling them. With it, you can completely turn off the on-board electronics of the aircraft, stop the engine of a car or ship, etc. When exposed to a large area, this weapon can act as non-destructive.

Directed energy weapons entered service with the US Armed Forces relatively recently. They are equipped with the latest American aircraft: the F-35 (however, its electromagnetic weapons are defensive in nature and are designed to disable enemy missiles) and the Boeing EA-18G Growler EW carrier-based aircraft. The latter can carry five hanging containers with EW weapons, including AESA equipment. The EA-18G was successfully used to suppress Libyan air defenses in 2011. There are plans to install directional energy emitters on ships and ground combat equipment. Prototypes of non-lethal directed energy weapons designed to influence a person (crowd dispersal, etc.) have also been created.

Speaking of directed energy weapons, mention should also be made of US tests of laser weapons to combat ballistic missiles, but at the end of 2011 this program was closed.

The tasks of destructive means of electronic attack are: suppression, defeat, destruction of enemy means of reconnaissance, navigation, control, electronic systems of military equipment and weapons; defeat of enemy personnel involved in the maintenance of these systems.

An important element of electronic warfare is the electronic protection of its troops. It includes three areas:

• direct protection of electronic systems (protection against enemy interference, atmospheric interference, weapons induced by radio emission, means of directed energy, electronic disinformation);
• ensuring electromagnetic compatibility at command posts and in combat formations of troops (protection of radio-electronic systems of friendly troops from mutual interference, including from means of electronic attack used against enemy radio electronic equipment);
• electronic protection during information operations (protection of information circulating in combat control systems, information protection of reconnaissance equipment, electronic attack and electronic protection).

In the interests of electronic protection, complex technical control is carried out. Its task is to control the ability of the enemy to collect intelligence information from electronic systems.

Comprehensive technical control includes:

• radio control - control over information circulating in their radio networks;
• radio-technical control - control of the enemy's ability to collect information about the technical parameters of his RES;
• radar control - control over the fact that the power, nature, direction and types of radiation of their RES do not exceed strictly established standards in order to make it difficult for the enemy to collect information about them (electronic masking);
• electron-optical control - control over the possibility of obtaining information by the enemy with the help of television cameras, receiving thermal radiation;
• acoustic and hydroacoustic control - control of the possibility of obtaining information by the enemy by receiving sound signals propagating in air and water.

Programming and reprogramming of electronic warfare equipment during a combat operation, although not a component of electronic warfare, directly affects its effectiveness. Their tasks are: ensuring the timely targeting of electronic warfare equipment to priority targets; restructuring of electronic warfare equipment in connection with the requirements of the situation; achieving the highest efficiency of their use in terms of power, direction, type of electronic attack (defense) when the object of attack (defense) changes the parameters of electromagnetic radiation and performs a maneuver; redundancy and timely replacement of electronic warfare equipment when they fail.

EW DEVELOPMENT TRENDS

Based on the experience of military operations at the beginning of the XXI century. the main trends in the field of electronic warfare for the near future can be identified:

• the use of electronic warfare forces in conjunction with combat control systems in information operations;
• the transition from solving individual tasks to the integrated conduct of electronic warfare in the interests of the entire grouping of troops;
• adoption of new universal electronic warfare equipment with significantly expanded frequency range and functionality;
• an increase in the number of targets simultaneously controlled, hit, suppressed by one electronic warfare complex;
• expansion of the list of EW targets in connection with the creation of directed energy weapons;
• creation of electronic warfare systems with an open construction architecture, the functionality of which can be changed by adding additional modules.