Ukrainian Special Forces destroy Russian Sapphire electronic warfare system in Kursk Region.

On August 28, 2024, the Special Operations Forces (SOF) of the Armed Forces of Ukraine conducted an operation that led to the destruction of a Russian Sapphire electronic warfare (EW) system in the Kursk region. According to the SOF press service, the attack was executed using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) following reconnaissance in the Russian-controlled area of Kurshchyna, which resulted in the discovery and subsequent targeting of the Sapphire system.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

The attack on the Russian Sapphire electronic warfare system was executed using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) following reconnaissance in the Russian-controlled area of Kurshchyna. (Picture source: Ukrainian SOF)

The Sapphire electronic warfare system, developed by JSC "VNII Gradient" and first presented at the Army 2020 exhibition, is produced by the Russian Radio-Electronic Technologies concern. The system is designed to counter various types of drones, including those categorized as "micro" and "mini." It functions by searching for, detecting, classifying, and geolocating the communication channels of UAVs, while also emitting radio signals to block control channels and satellite navigation systems. The system allows for adjustable power levels of its signal interference, can operate in both automated and semi-automated modes, and can be integrated with other units to form a network for coordinated electronic warfare operations.

The Sapphire system is capable of monitoring an aerial perimeter with a range of up to 3,000 meters and can operate at altitudes between 10 and 3,000 meters. It has the capacity to detect and geolocate up to five drones simultaneously, with a 360-degree azimuth detection and jamming sector and a vertical angle of 60 degrees. The system covers several frequency bands, including 0.3-0.45 GHz, 0.85-1.6 GHz, 2.2-2.6 GHz, and 5.35-5.95 GHz, providing a broad spectrum of jamming and interference capabilities against UAV communication and navigation channels.

The Sapphire functions by searching for, detecting, classifying, and geolocating the communication channels of UAVs, while also emitting radio signals to block control channels and satellite navigation systems. (Picture source: Gruzovik Press)

According to a report by the Russian state news agency RIA Novosti on November 14, 2023, the Sapphire's frequency range was increased from 300 megahertz to six gigahertz. This modification reportedly enables the system to function as a modular design that can suppress a wide spectrum of drones, including FPV drones, which are frequently used in air defense. The expanded frequency range is intended to enable the system to target all known types of drones, thereby broadening its operational capabilities.

The Sapphire system is mounted on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter civilian bus chassis, although it is adaptable to other chassis types, including specialized military vehicles. Its equipment includes a telescopic mast with multiple omnidirectional antennas, and the control center for the system is located within the same vehicle that houses its hardware components. Upon detecting a drone, the system sends a signal to identify the target. If the target is identified as a threat, the system disrupts its electronic systems. The Sapphire can also target and suppress ground control stations for drones.

The equipment of the Sapphire electronic warfare system includes a telescopic mast with multiple omnidirectional antennas, and the control center for the system is located within the same vehicle that houses its hardware components. (Picture source: Ukrainian SOF)