OBRONA I MASKOWANIE W PRZECIWDZIAŁANIU ATAKOM BEZZAŁOGOWYCH SYSTEMÓW NA BLISKIM DYSTANSIE

Анотація

The article examines multi-layered defense against carrier-configured UAV employment, in which high-altitude fixed-wing platforms perform supplementary reconnaissance, target designation, and the launch of suspended FPV “kamikaze” drones with subsequent handover to dedicated operators. Drawing on consolidated field experience of Ukrainian aerial reconnaissance teams, the paper proposes a science-to-practice model that integrates physical, electromagnetic, and organizational protective measures and positions unit-level operational security as the first and mandatory layer of countermeasures. The model covers the full cycle of actions: from position camouflage; control of sound, light, and heat signatures; communication hygiene and EMCON; to regulated take- off/landing procedures at offset points; secure wiping and encryption of data carriers; the use of remote antennas and work from cover; as well as the integration of situational awareness systems.Key “windows of vulnerability” in carrier schemes are identified: the activation and separation interval of FPV drones; the separation of control channels and short-term spikes of electromagnetic emission; recurrent logistical patterns of launches; and dependence of detection quality on weather and scene contrast.It is shown that targeted signature reduction, rotation of in-the-clear code phrases on the radio, recipient verification via video calls, controlled disinformation inside the unit, and deployment of decoy electronic beacons significantly increase position survivability. The close-range counter-FPV layer is highlighted as the terminal shield of defense, encompassing local jamming assets, intercept solutions, deception tools, and action protocols during artillery fire, telemetry loss, or navigation jamming.A system of SOPs and checklists is substantiated for standard and non-standard scenarios, tied to defense effectiveness metrics: time-to-detection, share of disrupted attacks, attrition of enemy assets, and frequency of relocating own launch sites. The proposed approach is applicable to personnel training, operational planning, and the standardization of tactical procedures in aerial reconnaissance units.