The electromagnetic spectrum has become a crucial aspect of modern warfare, alongside traditional domains like land, air, sea, cyber, and space. At the ‘DESCOM 2026’ event, Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty highlighted the significance of the SSS mantra – ‘Sense, Secure, and Strike’ for dominating this spectrum. Rapid advancements in digital technologies, autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, and network operations are driving a transformation in modern warfare.
Electromagnetic spectrum is no longer just an enabler but a decisive factor in achieving battlefield dominance as conflicts evolve to be faster, more complex, and highly contested. Experts stress the need for defense forces to reassess their spectrum requirements to maintain operational superiority. Electronic Warfare, as demonstrated during ‘Operation Sindoor’ through jamming and GPS spoofing, plays a critical role in ensuring success in future conflicts.
Lt Gen Vivek Dogra, Signal Officer-in-Chief of the Corps of Signals Indian Army, highlighted the borderless nature of the electromagnetic spectrum, emphasizing its role in erasing traditional boundaries. He underscored the importance of indigenization in dominating this domain, emphasizing the collaboration between industry and defense to develop technologically advanced warfare systems.
Ashok Atluri, Chair of PHDCCI Defence and HLS Committee, emphasized the need for India to design, develop, and manufacture advanced warfare systems domestically. He noted the availability of talent, competence, and funding, stressing the importance of collective action to propel the nation towards self-reliance in defense technologies.
