The Arsenal of Anti-Drone Systems: Understanding Weaponry in the Ukraine Conflict

The question of what weapons are being used to shoot down Iranian Shahed drones in Ukraine has gained significant attention. The conflict in Ukraine has seen a diverse range of anti-drone technologies deployed, each with its unique advantages and limitations. This article delves into the types of weapons and systems employed, their costs, and the challenges associated with their deployment.

Understanding the Iranian Shahed Drones

It is important to clarify that the Shahed drones being shot down in Ukraine are not full-fledged Iranian models but rather cheap, disposable decoy drones. Russia frequently deploys these decoy drones alongside weaponized drones, leading to considerable confusion and resource wastage among the Ukrainian forces. The decoy drones are designed to distract and mislead, making it difficult to distinguish between weaponized and decoy drones.

Types of Anti-Drone Systems Deployed

Several types of anti-drone systems have been utilized in the conflict, ranging from ground-based gun systems to air defense missiles. Each of these systems offers different advantages and trade-offs, making the overall arsenal complex and multifaceted.

Gun-Based Anti-Drone Systems

Gun-based anti-drone systems are among the most cost-effective and widely used. These systems use machine guns or autocannons equipped with advanced sights to target drones. Examples include the Gepard system and ad-hoc combinations of new sights with traditional machine guns. The cost per engagement with such systems is typically in the tens to hundreds of dollars, making them a popular choice for Ukrainian forces. While not as sophisticated as missile systems, gun-based systems are effective and cheap.

Guided Missile Systems

Guided missile systems, such as the Hobby Eagle and Corgi-1, provide a more tactical and precise solution. These systems can intercept drones from a greater distance and are effective against larger, more sophisticated drones. The Hobby Eagle, for instance, can intercept drones up to 7,000 meters away, making it an attractive option for defending against swarms. However, these systems are more expensive and require more logistical support for maintenance and reloading.

Non-Kinetic Counter-Drone Systems

Non-kinetic counter-drone systems, such as acoustic and electronic warfare systems, offer a unique advantage in terms of cost-effectiveness. These systems use technology to disrupt or disable drones without physical engagement. They are particularly effective against smaller, consumer-grade drones and can be deployed in large quantities without the need for expensive ammunition. While the exact types and quantities of these systems in Ukraine are not publicly known, their potential is significant.

Cost Analysis and Logistics

The cost of the weapons themselves is not the primary concern in the Ukraine conflict. What is more critical is the cost and logistical challenges associated with the ammunition they consume. For example, gun-based systems require ammunition, which can be expensive and logistically challenging to supply. Guided missile systems, while more expensive, require less ammunition and can often intercept multiple drones with a single launch, making them more cost-effective in the long run.

Cost of Specific Systems

- Gun-based systems: Cost per engagement ranges from tens to hundreds of dollars, depending on the system. The Gepard system is known to be more expensive but offers higher accuracy and a larger magazine capacity. - Guided missile systems: Cost per engagement is typically higher, ranging from thousands to tens of thousands of dollars. The Hobby Eagle is reported to cost around USD 150,000, while the Corgi-1 costs around USD 250,000. - Non-kinetic systems: These are the most cost-effective, with operational costs often in the tens of cents to dollars per engagement.

Conclusion

While the exact mix of anti-drone systems in use in Ukraine is unclear, it is evident that a combination of gun-based systems, guided missile systems, and non-kinetic systems is being employed. The challenge lies not just in the cost of the systems themselves but in the logistical support required to deploy and maintain them effectively. The cost of ammunition and the need for ongoing maintenance are key factors in the overall effectiveness and sustainability of these anti-drone systems.