Numerous Soviet naval and air contacts were reported by U.S. search aircraft, and in the VP-26 squadron report, at least two PB4Y-2 APS-15 radar operators reported noise- modulated radar jamming. The jamming obliterated the APS-15 scopes in up to 30-degree sectors for as long as three hours. The reports varied as to the origin of the jamming, but it was believed to have originated from a Soviet submarine or from ashore in Latvia.
In those days radars usually operated at preset frequency, frequency-hopping was invented later . Both sides "knew" most of the frequencies of other side search radars , at least those used in peacetime . Also, both sides had informal agreement not to use fire-control radars against each other ships or aircraft (operating at different frequencies then search radar) , as that itself could be interpreted as act of aggression . Therefore, jamming of said fire-control radars and other similar equipment didn't happen often (it would be serious escalation both to use them and to jam them ) .
Later, as radar technology progressed, new types of radar were introduced , with dual roles (search and track ) , frequency-hopping and many other things. Consequently , jamming was changed too - no longer would you just pump signals at certain frequency . Instead, sophisticated jamming techniques try to either give false readings about targets range, create false targets, or simply make target "disappear" from radar (cancel out signal) .
In any case, in modern times it is very hard to distinguish does your target (ship or aircraft) have hostile intentions . Modern equipment don't have telltale signs of imminent attack like older systems . Therefore, sneak attacks are possibility, but knowing what is at stake here I don't think either side would go for it (especially with something relatively minor like attacking one destroyer)
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The US films, are failry convincing that the US did not attack that bomber. In fct, the Societs never said the US did. The Soviets contended that a US helicopter in the area caused the TU-16 to have to take evasive measures to keep from hitting it.
Yes, but Soviet side was presented with this film, and probably some other evidence that remains classified to convince them . Reason for that is that both sides agreed they have right to buzz each others ships (and aircraft) in international waters , and they bot did that (and still do ) . Therefore, it would be illegal for US to shoot down that Tu-16 no matter how dangerous it was potentially carrying God knows what in its internal bay .
