It covers an ~185-mile radius, targeting 8–10 GHz X-band frequencies to create an “interference bubble” that jams radars and GPS/satellite signals.
By Hezy Laing
New satellite imagery indicates that Iran has rapidly deployed S-300 missile batteries and the potent COBRA V8 electronic warfare system.
Experts suggest this move creates an “electromagnetic wall” designed to disrupt the sensors of Israeli and American F-35s in defense of sensitive sites.
Iran’s new COBRA V8 electronic warfare system (based on the Russian 1L257E Krasukha-4) is a highly mobile, long-range, ground-based electronic warfare (EW) system designed to disrupt radar-guided combat aircraft, AWACS planes, and reconnaissance drones.
It covers an ~185-mile radius, targeting 8–10 GHz X-band frequencies to create an “interference bubble” that jams radars and GPS/satellite signals.
The new Iranian system is designed to deal with the Israeli and American air threat – by creating a ‘jamming bubble’ that will make it difficult for Western aircraft to operate effectively.
How the IAF Might Overcome It
Despite the great danger of the new system – the IAF may be able to counter it. Here are some possible solutions:
Kinetic Elimination (Hard Kill): Using long-range stand-off missiles (like Delilah or Spice) to destroy the jammer, as its high-power, active emission makes it locatable, despite its mobility.
Non-GPS Navigation: Israel has already developed and fielded anti-GPS-jamming technology and Inertial Navigation Systems (INS) for weapons and aircraft following earlier encounters with Russian EW, reducing reliance on satellite navigation.
Electronic Attack (Soft Kill): Employing Israeli-made electronic warfare systems (e.g., from Elbit or IAI) to jam, deceive, or overwhelm the Cobra’s sensors, forcing it to shut down or disrupting its ability to target specific frequencies.
Low-Observable Technology: Utilizing stealth aircraft, such as the F-35I Adir, to operate within the jammed environment with reduced radar cross-section, limiting the effectiveness of the EW system.
Drones/Loitering Munitions: Employing swarms or specialized anti-radiation drones that can hone in on the Cobra’s radio frequency emissions and destroy it, as suggested by past combat experience against Russian systems in Syria.
