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Electromagnetic Spectrum Now Decisive for Battlefield Dominance: Experts

Experts at the DESCOM 2026 conference emphasized that the electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) is now a decisive factor for achieving battlefield dominance, not just an enabler. They highlighted that modern conflicts, as seen in 'Operation Sindoor', are faster and more complex, with EMS blurring the lines between civilian and military use. The mantra of 'Sense, Secure, and Strike' was outlined as crucial for dominating this spectrum. A strong call was made for industry collaboration and indigenisation to rapidly bridge the gap between laboratory development and battlefield deployment.

Key Points: EMS is Key to Battlefield Dominance, Say Defence Experts

  • EMS is a critical warfare domain
  • 'Sense, Secure, Strike' mantra is key
  • Future conflicts are faster and more contested
  • Indigenisation of tech is vital for dominance
2 min read

Electromagnetic spectrum decisive factor for achieving battlefield dominance: Experts

Experts at DESCOM 2026 state the electromagnetic spectrum is a decisive factor in modern warfare, crucial for operations like 'Operation Sindoor'.

"The electromagnetic spectrum has erased borders. - Lt Gen Vivek Dogra"

New Delhi, Jan 18

Electromagnetic spectrum has emerged as a critical domain of warfare alongside the traditional domain of warfare, and the SSS mantra of 'Sense, Secure and Strike' is the key for dominating electromagnetic spectrum, according to experts.

Addressing the 'DESCOM 2026' here, Chief Guest Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, AVSM Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Policy Planning and Force Development) HQ IDS said that modern warfare is undergoing a profound transformation driven by rapid advancement in digital technologies, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence and network and operations.

"At the heart of this lies the electromagnetic spectrum that we all are talking about it today and this has emerged as a critical domain of warfare alongside the traditional domain of warfare that is land, air, sea, cyber and space," he told the gathering.

Electromagnetic spectrum is no longer an enabler alone; these are the decisive factor for achieving battlefield dominance as future conflicts become faster, more complex and more contested.

Defence forces must reassess their spectrum requirement to maintain operational superiority. Electronic Warfare was extensively employed during 'Operation Sindoor' in jamming and gps spoofing. Superior electronic warfare capability can ensure success in future, said experts.

According to Lt Gen Vivek Dogra, SM, Signal Officer-in-Chief and Colonel Commandant, Corps of Signals Indian Army, 'Operation Sindoor' has shown that there are no hinterland.

"The electromagnetic spectrum has erased borders. During 'Operation Sindoor', commercial technology having dual use has blurred the lines between civilian and military spectrums," Dogra mentioned.

Talking about the indigenisation, he said we have to dominate; there are no two ways about it.

"We need to reduce the gap between the laboratory, production and the battlefield. We are there with the industry, let's sit together, put our heads down, act together so that the nation's head is always held high," he noted.

Ashok Atluri, Chair, PHDCCI Defence and HLS Committee, said there's no dearth of talent, competence or funding.

"All we need is the will to move ahead and design, develop and make in India, the technologically advanced warfare systems. A lot of deep-tech funding has already been done via the new RDI (Research, Development and Innovation) Fund launched by the government," he said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
As someone in tech, this is fascinating. The focus on reducing the gap between lab and battlefield is key. The RDI fund is a good step, but execution and speed matter more than funding announcements. Hope to see results soon.
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Vikram M
"Electromagnetic spectrum has erased borders." Powerful statement. In today's world, the first strike might not be with a missile, but by jamming the enemy's communications. Our forces need to be ten steps ahead. Full support for indigenous development.
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Priya S
Glad this is getting attention. But I have a respectful critique: we hear a lot about 'Make in India' and funds. The real test is creating systems that are not just assembled here, but truly designed and innovated from the ground up by our engineers.
R
Rohit P
Sense, Secure, Strike. Sounds like a solid mantra. Future wars will be won by who controls the invisible waves around us. Hope our private sector and DRDO work together seamlessly without the usual bureaucratic delays. Time is of the essence.
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Michael C
The integration of AI and autonomous systems with EW is the next frontier. India has the talent pool to lead, but needs a clear, focused roadmap. The comments from the industry chair are encouraging. Let's hope for concrete partnerships.

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