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Advantage Ukraine: How Radar Shortages Affect Russian Artillery Tracking

BY SOFREP News Team

Russia’s worsening radar shortage highlights concerns over artillery recon capabilities with potential implications for both sides in the conflict

Zoopark-1 (Image source: Twitter)

—a serious shortage of counter-battery radars in Ukraine, UK Intel reports.

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The United Kingdom (UK) Ministry of Defence Intelligence has recently reported a worsening shortage of counter-battery radars within Russian forces operating in Ukraine. The critical radar in question is the Zoopark-1 1L219, a ground-based system capable of effectively detecting Ukrainian artillery and enabling responsive countermeasures. However, this essential resource is facing a scarcity, with only a few of the “originally deployed” Zoopark fleet remaining. The situation has been exacerbated by a recent radar loss near Russia’s 58th Combined Arms Army’s area in southern Ukraine, resulting in growing concerns over Russia’s artillery reconnaissance capabilities.

Sanctions Pose Roadblocks to Radar Replenishment

The latest UK report suggests that Russia’s ability to replenish its dwindling counter-battery radar systems is significantly hindered due to sanctions. With the loss of at least six Zooparks reported in March, it is likely that the country now possesses only a handful of these crucial radar units. The systems rely on high-tech electronics, the supply of which has been disrupted by international sanctions. This predicament places Russia in a challenging position as it struggles to maintain its artillery reconnaissance capabilities in the ongoing conflict.

Zoopark-1 1L219 is a ground-based counter-battery radar system designed to effectively detect and track enemy artillery positions, including various artillery shells and rockets, within a range of up to 40 kilometers (25 miles). Capable of simultaneously monitoring up to 12 targets, the Zoopark-1 1L219 plays a crucial role in artillery reconnaissance and enables commanders to respond swiftly and accurately to enemy attacks. Its significance lies in providing real-time intelligence on potential threats, aiding in the strategic positioning of troops, and enhancing the effectiveness of counter-battery measures during military operations.

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Senior Russian General Dismissed for Disclosing Shortage

Major General Ivan Popov, the commander of Russia’s 58th Combined Arms Army that has been deployed to the intense frontline in Ukraine’s Zaporizhzhia region, was dismissed from his position last week after drawing attention to the dire shortages of counter-battery radar systems affecting Russian troops in Ukraine.

In a voice note published on Telegram, Popov candidly questioned the support his troops received and raised concerns about critical issues affecting the army’s combat operations and well-being. The recording was shared on the messaging app by Andrey Gurulev, a member of the Russian Parliament and a former deputy commander of the Southern Military District. Popov’s unwavering honesty and harsh criticism in addressing these problems directly at the highest level led to the ultimate decision to remove him from his command.

Furthermore, the senior Russian general did not mince words as he accused Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu of treason, attributing his dismissal to the top Kremlin official’s actions. Popov’s claim that the armed forces of Ukraine could not penetrate the Russian army from the front, but were instead hit from the rear by their own senior commander, has sparked outrage and raised questions about loyalty within the ranks.

Nevertheless, Popov’s sudden removal highlights the sensitivity of addressing internal problems and voicing concerns within the Russian military. His dismissal may have implications for other officers who may now be hesitant to speak up about issues affecting their troops, fearing potential repercussions for their honesty and candor.

How Ukrainian Soldiers May Benefit While Bracing for New Challenges

On the other hand, the shortage of Russian ground-based radar systems holds significant implications for Ukrainian soldiers on the frontline. The scarcity of counter-battery radars could give Ukrainian artillery units some advantage, as Russian forces might struggle to accurately detect and track their positions. This, in turn, could lower the immediate risk of counterstrikes from the Russian side, allowing Ukrainian troops more flexibility in their operations. However, the radar shortage might also lead to alterations in Russian offensive strategies, as commanders might become more cautious without real-time intelligence on Ukrainian artillery locations. This could create opportunities for Ukrainian forces to exploit enemy radar coverage gaps and bolster their artillery reconnaissance capabilities.

Regardless, the situation remains dynamic, and the shortage may impact only some sectors equally, potentially leading to varying challenges for Ukrainian soldiers in different regions of the conflict. As both sides adapt their strategies, there is a risk of further escalation should Russian forces seek alternative means of retaliation due to their radar limitations.

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The shortage of counter-battery radar systems, particularly the Zoopark-1 1L219, within the Russian forces in Ukraine, has become a matter of increasing concern, as highlighted by the UK Intelligence report. The loss of several Zooparks and the challenges posed by sanctions in acquiring high-tech electronics have significantly impacted Russia’s ability to effectively detect and respond to Ukrainian artillery. As the conflict continues, monitoring developments in Russia’s artillery reconnaissance capabilities remains vital, as it could potentially impact the dynamics of the ongoing hostilities in the region.

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