Russia deploys 'radar-blinding' helicopters to Syria
Helicopters carrying the Rychag-AV electronic warfare complex sent by Russia to Syria are capable of disabling radar from hundreds of kilometers away.
Mi-8MTPR-1 helicopter appeared in Syria equipped with Rychag-AV complex. Photo:Twitter |
Syrian government soldiers last weekend released images of a Mi-8MTPR-1 helicopter equipped with the Russian-developed Rychag-AV electronic warfare system. Moscow has claimed that this is a system capable of "blinding enemy radar" at a distance of up to 400 km.Sputnikreport
Rychag-AV is a jamming system specially designed for helicopters. Its main function is electronic suppression, deception of enemy sensors and missiles, warning of allied aircraft and helicopters, as well as protection of important ground bases.
Each Rychag-AV complex can suppress multiple targets at the same time. This jammer is capable of preventing enemy radars and missiles from detecting targets, while guiding friendly missiles. This helps maximize the survivability and combat effectiveness of helicopters equipped with Rychag-AV.
A Mi-8MTPR-1 in service with the Russian Air Force. Photo:Polina Stepanova. |
In addition to the Mi-8MTPR-1 helicopter, Russia has also developed a version of the Rychag-AV for mobile air defense systems, creating a protective umbrella for armored and mechanized infantry formations. Some experts believe that the Rychag-AV significantly reduced the damage caused by the US cruise missile attack on Al Shayrat airport early last year, when only 23 out of 56 Tomahawks reached their targets.