In what represents a new boost to Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, the Come Back Alive Foundation has announced that it has completed the modernization of 16 ZSU-23-4M-A1 Shilka self-propelled anti-aircraft systems to counter Russian drones. The systems have already been delivered to the Armed Forces of Ukraine. According to the organization, the effort required an investment of approximately 400 million hryvnias (just over US$9.5 million), funded through various donations, which made it possible to carry out an extensive set of modifications to the base design.
Expanding on the technical details of the modernization, the foundation highlighted the replacement of the legacy analog computerized fire-control system with a digital one, along with the addition of a new navigation system, power converters, and various auxiliary components. As a result of these upgrades, the detection and engagement time against potential targets was reduced from 18 seconds to just 0.2 seconds, while the effective range of the systems was reportedly doubled. Another key improvement—particularly relevant in counter-drone operations—is the Shilka’s new ability to track up to 20 targets simultaneously.
In this context, it is worth recalling that Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense has been promoting the modernization of its Shilka air defense systems since 2020. In particular, the ministry sought to integrate a new radar system effective against enemy drones, selecting the Rokach-AS model for this purpose. Plans have also included the installation of a new optoelectronic system with thermal imaging capability, as well as a new laser rangefinder.
It should also be noted that the modernized systems have been handed over to the National Guard of Ukraine, with reports specifically pointing to their assignment to the 16th Artillery Brigade. This unit is primarily tasked with point defense of strategic objectives, where the upgraded Shilka systems have already been deployed and are operational. According to statements posted by Come Back Alive on its social media channels, the systems have already demonstrated their enhanced capabilities in combat.
Looking more broadly at other modernization efforts carried out by the foundation at the request of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, it should be mentioned that Come Back Alive has also worked on upgrading Osa-AKM air defense systems. This is a significant detail, as it not only reflects the accumulation of key expertise in such modernization processes, but also aligns with a strategy of restoring systems for which there is a substantial domestic stockpile of ammunition in Ukraine—thereby reducing dependence on munitions supplied by Kyiv’s Western allies.
As the foundation itself stated: “(…) the army needs more short-range air defense assets to protect critical infrastructure, but new air defense complexes are expensive, as is their ammunition. Shilka operates using ammunition that is currently available in abundance both in Ukraine and among our international partners. And thanks to this deep modernization, the anti-aircraft systems have received modern digital ‘brains’ for fire control and a radar detection system, reducing processing time by nearly a hundredfold.”
Image credits: Come Back Alive Foundation
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