Kolchuga
The `updated' Kolchuga station detects, analyses and identifies a wide range of signals in the 0.1 - 18 GHz band. The manufacturer claims that `practically all currently known' emitters can be identified. Mounted on a 6-wheeled truck, the station consists of four antenna assemblies in the VHF, UHF and SHF wave bands, with both narrow beam (long range) and wide beam (close range) monitoring capability, together with a parallel receiver for analysis, identification and processing equipment, including DF in conjunction with other stations; display and recording equipment; communications equipment including data transmission; power supply. The environmental specifications are claimed to be sufficient to enable the station to operate in conditions ranging from -50ºC to +50ºC.
The Kolchuga station would normally operate in a complex of three together with a command vehicle, to provide accurate triangulation for location. In this configuration, with the individual vehicles 60 km apart, it is claimed that the system can detect emitters over a front of 1,000 km at up to 600 km range (narrow beam) or up to 200 km (wide beam). The wide dispersal of vehicles aids the elimination of screened areas.
Operational status
In April 2002 Jane's Intelligence Digest reported that a complete system (that is 3 sensor vehicles and a command vehicle) may have been sold to Iraq the previous year.
Contractor
Joint Stock Holding Company Topaz
Donetsk.
NEW ENTRY
The Kolchuga station sensor vehicle with raised antenna array (Janes/IDR)
(2002)
The Kolchuga sensor vehicle operator's position (UKRSPETSEXPORT)
(2002)
