Ukrainian Special Operations Forces (SSO) have successfully destroyed a sophisticated Russian “Sapphire” electronic warfare (EW) system in Russia’s Kursk region, according to a statement released by Ukraine’s military.
The SSO announced the successful operation via a video posted on Telegram, showing the moment the “Sapphire” system was struck and engulfed in flames. The exact date of the strike was not specified, but it was part of Ukraine’s broader offensive in the region, which began on August 6. The operation resulted in both fatalities and injuries among Russian personnel, although specific numbers were not disclosed.
The destruction of a rare Russian electronic warfare system Sapphire in the Kursk region by Ukrainian Special Operations Forces operators.https://t.co/pJn6f7LdMc pic.twitter.com/ujiLxm7iXv
— Yigal Levin (@YigalLevin) August 28, 2024
The “Sapphire” EW system, which Russia had recently upgraded and deployed, is designed to detect and neutralize drones from up to 30 kilometers away. It plays a critical role in countering aerial threats, particularly unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
The “Sapphire” system, first reported to be in use by Russian forces in July 2023, is mounted on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter chassis and features a telescopic mast with omnidirectional antennas. It is capable of jamming drone control signals and protecting Russian engineering units on the battlefield.
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