Codification of electronic warfare (EW) systems

Codification of EW systems is a procedure as a result of which a specific product is designated as a supply item for the needs of the security and defense sector. For an EW manufacturer, undergoing codification is of practical importance, as it confirms the possibility of using the equipment within the defense supply system and creates the prerequisites for its procurement by state customers.

A special procedure is provided for tactical-level electronic warfare systems. The procedure is regulated, in particular, by Resolution of the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine No. 1275.

In practice, EW codification is not merely the assignment of a corresponding status to a product, since before applying to the Ministry of Defence, the manufacturer must prepare documentation, conduct tests, and document the declared characteristics. Mistakes made at the preparatory stage may result in the need to revise documents or repeat certain procedures. The lawyers of “Prikhodko & Partners” Law Firm provide comprehensive support in the codification of weapons and military equipment, helping manufacturers save time and avoid additional complications.

What Standards Must an EW System Meet for Codification?

Firstly, it is not enough to simply declare the characteristics of an EW system, as the product must comply with the technical requirements for tactical-level electronic warfare systems approved by the Ministry of Defence together with the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Secondly, the assessment concerns not the advertising or presentation description of the product, but its actual tactical and technical characteristics, configuration, and the results of the tests conducted.

Thirdly, technical specifications (TS) play a key role. They are developed and approved by the EW manufacturer itself and are subsequently entered into the Main Fund of Technical Specifications of Ukraine and the relevant electronic database.

Fourthly, compliance of an EW system with the applicable requirements is confirmed by the results of departmental tests or through verification of its characteristics followed by demonstration tests.

EW Codification Procedure

The demonstration tests themselves are conducted within 10 business days from the date the relevant set of documents is received. Their purpose is to confirm the tactical and technical characteristics declared by the manufacturer. Following such tests, the Ministry of Defence codifies the supply item within 10 days and includes it in the relevant staffing and equipment tables.

Documents Required for Codification of Electronic Warfare Systems

The following documents may be required for the codification of an EW system:

• act of joint departmental tests;
• information on the tactical and technical characteristics of the EW system in the prescribed form;
• technical specifications;
• factory test programme and methods;
• test report;
• factory test protocols;
• etc.

It is important for manufacturers that the Procedure limits the possibility of requesting additional documents that are not included in the established list.

At the same time, the manufacturer is responsible for the accuracy of the information specified in the documents concerning the EW system. Therefore, before submitting the materials, it is important to verify that the characteristics specified in the technical specifications, test protocols, reports, and other documents are consistent.

Legal Support for EW System Codification

The codification of electronic warfare systems combines both technical and legal aspects.

The lawyers of “Prikhodko & Partners” Law Firm provide comprehensive support to manufacturers at all stages of EW codification: from the initial analysis of the product and determination of the optimal procedure to reviewing the set of documents and assisting with communication with the relevant public authorities.

As part of our legal support, we:

1. audit the available documentation;
2. determine which materials are missing for submission;
3. assist in properly preparing the package of documents in accordance with the selected procedure;
4. review technical specifications and testing documents;
5. provide support until the final result is obtained.

For a manufacturer, the main objective is not merely to submit documents for EW codification, but to structure the procedure so that all documentation is consistent and complies with the requirements of applicable legislation. Comprehensive preliminary preparation helps minimise the risk of documents being returned and unnecessary delays.

If you need to codify weapons or military equipment, submit a request on our website and our lawyer will contact you.