Operators of Ukraine's Raid 413th Regiment have successfully struck russian R-330Zh Zhitel electronic warfare system, dealing a significant blow to the enemy's counter-UAV capabilities. The operation was confirmed by Ukrainian sources following a targeted strike on the system.
The R-330Zh Zhitel is a specialized russian electronic warfare system designed to intercept and suppress communication links of unmanned aerial vehicles and other airborne platforms. The system is capable of jamming UAV data links at distances of up to 25 kilometers and disrupting control channels at ranges reaching 50 kilometers.
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According to the report, the operators of the Raid Regiment damaged the antenna array of the Zhitel system. Destruction of these antennas effectively renders the station inoperable, resulting in a complete loss of its combat capability rather than a temporary degradation.
The neutralization of the Zhitel system carries particular operational significance, as such assets are used to protect rear areas, command posts, logistics hubs, and air defense sites from Ukrainian drone activity. Their presence severely restricts the use of UAVs, especially in deep-strike and reconnaissance roles.
From a material standpoint, the loss is also substantial. A single R-330Zh Zhitel system is estimated to cost around $10 million, and its production requires sophisticated electronic components, with manufacturing timelines extending to several months.
This makes each destroyed or disabled system especially painful for russia, which continues to face constraints in producing advanced electronic warfare equipment under sanctions and battlefield attrition.
By eliminating the Zhitel system, Ukrainian forces have opened additional operational space for the use of UAVs, including long-range strike drones and reconnaissance platforms operating deep behind enemy lines, reinforcing Ukraine's ongoing campaign to erode russia's electronic warfare shield.
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