SPECTRUM-ENABLED WARFARE
Responses due by September 1, 2026
Current Capability Needs
Exercise Combined Resolve
Spectrum-Enabled Warfare enables commanders to control, exploit, and deny the electromagnetic environment as a maneuver space, integrating sensing, protection, attack, and deception to shape enemy decision-making. By combining responsive spectrum awareness, mobile and networked EW, counter-reconnaissance, and multi-echelon deception, these capabilities disrupt enemy C2 and ISR while preserving friendly freedom of action. In large scale combat operations (LSCO), spectrum-enabled warfare degrades enemy targeting cycles, protects dispersed formations, and enables multi-domain convergence by allowing forces to maneuver, strike, and deceive under persistent electromagnetic contestation.
a. Operational Electromagnetic Attack, Protection, and Support Systems
Operational electromagnetic attack, protection, and support systems integrate offensive jamming, defensive hardening, and wide-spectrum sensing. These systems detect, suppress, or exploit enemy emissions while protecting friendly networks under contested electromagnetic conditions.
Operationally, these systems disrupt enemy C2, degrade targeting networks, and protect friendly formations from jamming and signature detection. They directly support FM 3-0 by enabling freedom of action and degrading enemy decision cycles across all domains.
b. Responsive Multi-Domain Spectrum Detection
Responsive spectrum detection systems provide real-time awareness of enemy and friendly electromagnetic activity across land, air, and cyber domains. They combine RF sensing, direction finding, and automated classification to create an EM battlespace picture.
Operationally, they support counter-reconnaissance by detecting enemy ISR and identifying EM threats early. They accelerate targeting cycles and enhance survivability by revealing enemy attempts to detect or jam friendly forces.
c. Counter Surveillance & Reconnaissance System
Counter-SR systems detect, disrupt, or deceive enemy ISR platforms using EM masking, decoys, multispectral obscurants, and deception modules. They reduce enemy ability to identify friendly positions, movements, or high-value nodes.
Operationally, Counter-SR preserves surprise, protects maneuver, and delays enemy targeting processes. These systems are essential to FM 3-90 security operations, ensuring friendly forces control the reconnaissance fight.
d. Tactical, Mobile, Networked, EW System
Mobile EW systems accompany maneuver units to deliver on-the-move sensing, jamming, and protection. They use adaptive receivers and jammers to disrupt enemy C2, UAS links, and sensor networks.
Operationally, these systems protect formations, enable maneuver, and reduce enemy reconnaissance effectiveness. They synchronize EW effects across brigades and divisions, contributing to multi-domain convergence.
e. Multi-Echelon MILDEC Emitters
Multi-echelon MILDEC emitters generate false EM signatures that simulate friendly units, CPs, or networks. They mislead enemy ISR and fires systems by creating believable electromagnetic decoys.
Operationally, MILDEC emitters shape enemy perceptions, dilute targeting capacity, and support surprise. They reinforce FM 3-13 deception principles, creating opportunities for maneuver and joint convergence.
f. AI-Assisted EW Planning
AI-assisted EW planning tools analyze spectrum patterns, enemy emissions, terrain, and friendly systems to recommend optimal EW courses of action. They automate deconfliction and optimize jammer placement and waveform selection.
Operationally, these tools accelerate planning, reduce staff burden, and improve synchronization of EW with fires and maneuver. They enhance tempo and decision dominance by anticipating enemy EW and recommending countermeasures.
