Ukrainian specialists have provided a positive preliminary evaluation of the “Ai-Petri” electronic warfare (EW) complex, noting its potential to enhance defensive capabilities. This assessment highlights the system’s features and its intended role in countering reconnaissance efforts and protecting critical infrastructure from aerial threats.
The “Ai-Petri” system is designed to disrupt enemy reconnaissance operations and defend vital assets against attack drones, such as those of the Shahed type, by jamming their navigation systems in proximate areas. The initial review underscores its strategic importance in modern conflict zones, particularly in mitigating threats from unmanned aerial vehicles.
According to Serhiy Beskrestnov, an expert in radio electronics and communication systems, the “Ai-Petri” system features “broadband antennas, wide-range interference modules, substantial output power, and remote-control capabilities.” Beskrestnov added that while he did not test it on a polygon, he believes it “will also work as a countermeasure against FPV drones within a few hundred meters.” However, he expressed skepticism regarding its effectiveness against guided aerial bombs (KABs).
Enhancing Drone Countermeasures
In response to the preliminary technical assessment, specialists have requested developers to integrate a “Shahed suppression preset with online control.” This proposed feature would enable real-time activation and deactivation, prioritizing operations on GNSS/C2 channels. This enhancement is expected to “significantly increase the effectiveness of critical infrastructure protection in the close zone,” according to Beskrestnov, whose comments align with ongoing efforts to refine drone defense strategies as highlighted in reports on Russian drone attack tactics and protecting critical infrastructure.
Investment and Deployment
The development and production of these counter-reconnaissance systems, referred to as “Ai-Petri SV” in some contexts, have received significant investment. Since autumn 2023, former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has invested over 200 million UAH in the initiative. These systems have reportedly undergone successful testing and are now deployed by the Ukrainian Armed Forces, providing coverage along approximately one thousand kilometers of the combat frontline.
After an initial period without direct government funding, Poroshenko announced a contract with the Ministry of Defense in March 2025, formalizing state recognition and adoption of the system. This contract ensures continued support and integration of the “Ai-Petri” EW complex within the Ukrainian Armed Forces, targeting specific aerial threats like Shahed drones and enhancing national defense capabilities against persistent aerial reconnaissance and attack.