This report analyses how the radio-electronic warfare (EW) technology and its place in modern warfare have evolved since the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In the era when drones have replaced artillery in becoming the deadliest weapons on the battlefield, responsible for 60-80% of casualties on both sides, the use of EW is central in anti-drone warfare, defense against guided missiles, and for disabling enemy detection systems for a successful attack. The study is based on OSINT research and expert interviews with modern EW technology developers and users, and addresses the lack of analysis of this critical technology latest trends in Western defense research.

The study is structured in five parts: Part 1 explains electronic warfare fundamentals, key EW equipment in Russia, Ukraine and NATO, and how EW has become a crucial element of modern warfare. Part 2 draws the divergent itineraries of Russian and Ukrainian EW technologies development, depending on different context in two countries, which explains the current competition on the front. Part 3 compares modern EW equipment and doctrine in Russia vs Ukraine, leading to the situation of parity. Part 4 introduces battlefield innovation. The conclusion draws future perspectives and limitations of this technology development.