EW systems

An electronic warfare (EW) system is designed to disrupt the control, video transmission, and communication channels used by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The system generates a localized field of radio-frequency interference within specific frequency bands, causing an FPV drone or UAV to lose its connection with the operator. Hrets EW systems are used to protect positions, mobile units, and field-deployed assets from drone threats.

EW systems are used to counter FPV drones, DJI Mavic quadcopters, and other UAVs operating within the targeted frequency ranges. The Hrets 4MO EW system provides protection against FPV drones at distances of 70–400 meters, while the Anti-Drop EW backpack is designed to neutralize DJI Mavic drones within a range of 50–100 meters, depending on operating conditions.

For position protection, EW systems are used to create a localized jamming zone around the deployment area. The Hrets 5UL EW system is designed to protect against FPV drones operating in the 170–600 MHz frequency range, while the Hrets 5ML EW system suppresses drone control and communication signals at distances of up to 400 meters, depending on terrain conditions and antenna configuration.

To counter DJI Mavic quadcopters, EW systems typically operate in the 2.4 GHz and 5.8 GHz frequency bands. The Hrets 4MC EW system supports dual-band operation in the 2360–2500 MHz and 5725–5850 MHz ranges, enabling it to disrupt both control and video transmission channels used by DJI Mavic drones. The Anti-Drop EW backpack is also used for mobile protection against DJI Mavic drones in field environments, providing a portable solution for counter-UAV operations.

Some EW systems have received NATO codification, allowing them to be officially used within military organizations and procurement frameworks. These include the Hrets 4MO EW system, designed to counter FPV drones, and the Hrets 4MC EW system, developed to combat DJI Mavic quadcopters. NATO codification simplifies the procurement, logistics, and inventory management of military equipment, making it easier to integrate these systems into official supply chains.

Lightweight EW systems are designed for mobility and rapid deployment in field conditions. For example, the Hrets 3M EW system weighs approximately 6 kg without a battery and is used to provide localized protection against FPV drones. The high-power Hrets 6M EW system features power consumption of up to 900 W and incorporates dual 700–1050 MHz frequency bands, enabling more stable and effective signal suppression in challenging environments.

EW systems support different frequency bands depending on the type of threat and the configuration of their modules. The Hrets XL EW system operates in the 170–1050 MHz and 2080–2720 MHz frequency ranges, while the Hrets 4G EW system supports frequencies from 850 MHz to 2690 MHz to disrupt GSM, 2G, 3G, and 4G communication links used by UAVs. The selection of frequency bands depends on the types of drones present in the operational area.

The operational range of an EW system depends on module power, antenna type, and environmental conditions. The Hrets 3M, Hrets 4M, and Hrets 4MO EW systems provide suppression of FPV drones at distances ranging from 70 to 400 meters. The Anti-Drop EW backpack creates a localized jamming zone against DJI Mavic drones at an approximate range of 50–100 meters, depending on the UAV’s flight altitude and operating conditions.

Modular EW systems are used to adapt a system to different types of threats and frequency ranges. The Hrets XL EW system allows operators to combine modules depending on the mission requirements and operational conditions. This design simplifies system upgrades and enables configuration changes without replacing the entire equipment.

Mobile groups typically use compact and portable EW systems that can be deployed quickly in field conditions. The Anti-Drop EW backpack features a built-in EW module designed to counter DJI Mavic drones, while the Hrets 3M EW system is used for mobile protection against FPV drones. These systems are commonly used during movement or while performing operational tasks in field environments.

The cost of EW systems in Ukraine depends on the number of modules, power output, frequency range, and deployment format. Compact systems such as the Hrets 3M are generally less expensive than high-power complexes like the Hrets 6M or modular solutions such as the Hrets XL. The final price also varies depending on system configuration and additional equipment included in the setup.

The number of channels depends on the specific model and its configuration. For example, the Hrets 3M EW system operates across three frequency bands, the Hrets 4M supports four bands, and the Hrets 5ML provides five independent jamming channels. Multi-channel systems enable simultaneous coverage of multiple FPV drone control frequencies and adapt performance to different types of threats.

Yes, many EW systems can operate from autonomous power sources ranging from 12–36 V or 28 V, depending on the model. This allows the equipment to be used in field conditions, on vehicles, or at positions without access to a 220 V power grid. Some models also support connection to charging stations and battery-based solutions, enabling extended autonomous operation.

The effectiveness of an EW system depends on the frequency range, antenna type, terrain conditions, UAV flight altitude, and the distance to the drone operator. Proper antenna placement and the selection of an appropriate jamming-channel configuration are also critical factors. In complex environments, multi-channel or high-power systems may be used to create a denser and more stable radio-frequency interference field.

Hrets EW systems, anti-drone equipment, and portable jamming complexes can be purchased through the official website BlueBird Tech and authorized sales channels. The catalog includes systems such as Hrets 3M, Hrets 4MO, Hrets 4MC, Hrets 5ML, Hrets XL, and other solutions designed for countering FPV drones and DJI Mavic quadcopters.