Lessons for India as importance grows of electronic warfare in modern conflicts

In the evolving realm of modern warfare, the contours of conflict have expanded far beyond the traditional domains of land, air, and sea.

- Major General A.K. Chaturvedi (RETD)

Today, the electromagnetic spectrum has emerged as a decisive battlefield, where the ability to control, disrupt, or protect communications and surveillance systems can determine the outcome of military engagements. Electronic Warfare (EW), once seen as a support function, has now become a strategic force multiplier in contemporary conflicts, offering unparalleled advantages in intelligence, deterrence, and operational effectiveness. For India, facing a complex and volatile security environment, the Indian Army's growing focus on developing and deploying robust EW capabilities is not only timely but essential.

Electronic warfare involves the use of electromagnetic energy to detect, intercept, disrupt, and protect communication, radar, and navigation systems. It is broadly categorized into three domains: Electronic Support (ES), which involves detecting and analyzing enemy emissions; Electronic Attack (EA), which entails jamming or deceiving enemy systems; and Electronic Protection (EP), aimed at safeguarding friendly systems from similar threats. In an era of highly networked battlefields, EW enables forces to control the electromagnetic spectrum and deny the adversary critical information and coordination capabilities.

Recent conflicts around the world emphasize the growing prominence of EW. The ongoing Russia-Ukraine war offers a vivid example. Russian forces have deployed advanced EW systems such as the Krasukha-4 and Leer-3 to jam GPS signals, disrupt drone operations, and interfere with Ukrainian communications. On the other hand, Ukraine, with the support of NATO allies, has used portable jammers and spectrum-monitoring equipment to neutralize Russian UAVs and hinder battlefield coordination. The effectiveness of EW in this conflict has highlighted how disabling an enemy's communications and sensors can be as impactful as traditional kinetic strikes.