Russians begin to camouflage EW antennas realistically: Risks explained (photos)

The Russians have begun employing new methods to conceal critical equipment. To hide antennas necessary for reliable communications from Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance, the enemy is embedding them in artificial objects resembling tree trunks and stumps.

Radio technology specialist Serhii «Flash» provided this information.

Detection challenges

A key task in the war is identifying and destroying enemy electronic warfare (EW) systems, including jammers, SIGINT devices, and drone control units. All this equipment shares one feature — antennas.

Ukrainian drone operators target these antennas because they are the primary «target.» Locating an antenna can disable an entire communication system or reveal the location of an enemy pilot. As metal structures are highly visible against trees and grass, it is increasingly difficult for the enemy to conceal them naturally. Tricks like artificial stumps are being used to disguise metal as ordinary trees.

However, a recent finding reveals that the enemy is attempting to visually conceal these systems in the environment. Published footage shows how the fake objects are constructed:

- A plastic or metal mesh is used to create the framework.

- The antenna and its associated cables are placed inside the frame.

- The frame is then coated with regular mounting foam, textured like tree bark, and painted in natural colors.

Why this is dangerous for civilians and soldiers

These «trees» are almost impossible to distinguish from real ones from the height of a reconnaissance drone. This allows the enemy to:

1. Covertly deploy electronic warfare systems that can jam our drones.

2. Maintain stable communications for their units without risking rapid detection of their positions.

3. Set up drone control posts in forested areas while remaining hidden from artillery.