In the evolving realm of modern warfare, the contours of conflict have expanded far beyond the traditional domains of land, air, and sea. 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 categorised into three domains: Electronic Support (ES), which involves detecting and analysing 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 emphasise 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 neutralise 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. Similarly, during the 2020 Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict over Nagorno-Karabakh, Azerbaijan successfully integrated electronic warfare with drone operations, crippling Armenian air defences and command systems. These cases illustrate a paradigm shift in warfare, where success increasingly hinges on spectrum superiority.
Another notable example is Israel’s ongoing electronic warfare operations against Hezbollah. In recent years, Israel has intensified
Globally, the development of next-generation EW technologies is accelerating. Nations are integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) into EW platforms to enhance real-time decision-making and threat detection. Software-defined radios (SDRs), cognitive jammers, and advanced radar warning receivers are becoming standard components in modern EW suites. Countries like the United States are investing in platforms such as the Multi-Function Electronic Warfare-Air Large (MFEW-AL), while China has fielded advanced systems like the JY-27A radar and passive detection units capable of operating in a contested electromagnetic environment. These advancements reflect a strategic shift towards information dominance as the foundation of deterrence and combat superiority.
In this context, the Indian Army has recognised the pivotal role of EW and has taken significant steps to modernise and strengthen its capabilities. The Army currently employs a range of indigenously developed EW systems, including “Samyukta” for tactical battlefield surveillance and electronic attack operations, and “Himshakti” for high-altitude deployments. These systems are designed to detect, monitor, and jam a wide array of enemy communications and radar emissions. Developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), these platforms represent a crucial move toward technological self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
The Indian Army has also operationalised dedicated EW Brigades, particularly in sensitive border regions, to conduct both offensive and defensive spectrum operations. These formations are equipped to disrupt adversarial networks and provide spectrum dominance in scenarios ranging from conventional war to grey-zone operations. Mobile EW platforms, capable of rapid deployment in mountainous terrain and remote areas, are also being integrated into the Army’s operational architecture. These capabilities offer strategic advantages such as enhanced situational awareness, disruption of enemy targeting systems, counter-drone operations, and improved command and control resilience in the face of electronic attacks.
Importantly, the Army is pursuing a synergistic approach by integrating EW with cyber and space-based assets to build a comprehensive Information Warfare capability. Training institutions have incorporated specialised EW curricula, and joint exercises now routinely include EW simulations, reflecting the Army’s commitment to doctrinal modernisation. Furthermore, public-private partnerships are being encouraged to develop scalable, modular EW systems tailored to India’s operational requirements. Indigenous start-ups and defence technology firms are playing an increasingly important role in this effort, supported by the government’s focus on fostering innovation in critical defence technologies.
Electronic warfare is rapidly becoming a cornerstone of military power in the 21st century. Its ability to degrade enemy capabilities without direct confrontation makes it an indispensable tool in both deterrence and combat. For the Indian Army, strengthening EW capabilities is not just about technological advancement—it is about ensuring operational superiority, force protection, and national security in an increasingly contested battlespace. As India prepares to meet the challenges of tomorrow, the Army’s proactive embrace of electronic warfare stands as a testament to its readiness, resilience, and resolve.
* Maj Gen A.K. Chaturvedi (Retd) is the Acting Chairman of STRIVE India, Think Tank, Lucknow.