Ukraine’s explosives-laden robotic sports plane attempted to strike a 1,900-mile-range over-the-horizon radar in the Russian town of Kovylkino. The massive Container OTH radar is a significant target, with 145 masts spread across many acres. Despite initial unsuccessful attempts, the Ukrainians launched another raid, with video footage showing smoke billowing from the apparent blast site. The difficulty in striking a radar that far from Ukrainian lines highlights the challenge, but Ukraine remains determined to target the antiradar.
The $110-million Container radar is Russia’s sole over-the-horizon radar pointed west to monitor European airspace. OTH radars utilize the ionosphere to bounce signals and detect enemy aircraft, missiles, and drones from long distances. Unlike conventional radars vulnerable to enemy fire near the front line, OTH radars like the Container are typically beyond the range of most countries’ strike weapons. However, Ukraine has developed long-range strike drones capable of targeting the radar, among other strategic sites within Russia.
Ukraine’s long-range drones have proven effective, with missions targeting Russian air bases, industrial facilities, and now the Container radar. The self-flying sport plane used to target the radar can carry explosives and fuel for long flights, making it a valuable asset in the conflict. With the ability to be scaled up, more attacks are expected in the future, demonstrating Ukraine’s commitment to disrupting Russian military infrastructure through drone strikes. The goal is to make Ukrainian airspace safer for incoming warplanes while undermining Russian air defenses.
The recent drone raids on the Container radar show Ukraine’s determination to suppress or destroy the Russian radar installation. By targeting crucial components like the control center, the Ukrainians aim to disable the radar’s functionality. These attacks are part of a broader strategy to weaken Russian air defenses and facilitate future drone raids. The destruction of Russian air force Beriev A-50 radar planes earlier in the conflict highlights Ukraine’s evolving capabilities and their focus on disrupting key military assets.
The successful targeting of the Container radar would have significant implications for Russian air defenses and Ukrainian military operations. With planned arrivals of ex-European F-16s, securing Ukrainian airspace is crucial, and the destruction of critical radar installations is a key objective. Ukraine’s ability to launch long-range drone strikes into Russian territory showcases their increasing capabilities and resolve in the ongoing conflict. As the conflict continues, the use of drones and other advanced technologies will likely play a significant role in shaping the outcome on the ground.
