As technology evolves, so too does the nature of warfare. The newest front in the battle for global dominance is invisible, hidden within the electromagnetic spectrum, where the future of military superiority is being decided.
In an age of rapidly advancing drone warfare and sophisticated electronic surveillance, the ability to control the electromagnetic spectrum has become as crucial as mastery over air, land, and sea. Electronic warfare (EW) is now at the forefront of military strategy, not only to jam enemy signals and intercept intelligence but to defend against interference that could cripple vital systems.
Introducing Pulsar: Anduril’s Game-Changer
To meet the growing threats in the electromagnetic domain, Anduril Industries has developed Pulsar, a modular system designed to adapt in real-time to emerging electronic warfare challenges. Pulsar utilises cutting-edge radio frequency machine learning (RFML), allowing it to read and adjust its tactics in response to evolving enemy EW systems.
Unlike traditional EW methods, which often struggle to keep up with rapidly shifting signals, Pulsar’s machine learning capabilities enable it to continuously reconfigure itself to counteract and neutralise new threats. Essentially, Pulsar can “read the electromagnetic room” and respond dynamically, outpacing attempts to disrupt or evade detection. This technology represents a significant step forward in electronic warfare, providing a potent tool to combat sophisticated adversaries.
The Growing Role of Electronic Warfare
As armies become more reliant on interconnected systems and electronic devices, the risk of vulnerabilities has grown exponentially. A report from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) underscores the increasing importance of EW, warning that while not every soldier can be trained as an EW operator, every service member must be “spectrum-aware.”
The battlefield is becoming more electronic, and soldiers are now exposed to greater threats from jamming, hacking, and detection. The modern soldier must be prepared not only for conventional combat but also for invisible assaults on communications, navigation, and command systems. The increasing reliance on electronic devices for battlefield success makes these systems prime targets.
A New Era of Warfare
The shift towards electromagnetic dominance signals a new era in warfare, where victories will not solely be determined by firepower and strategic manoeuvring but by control over the electromagnetic spectrum. As the digital age continues to transform combat environments, the ability to disrupt, deceive, and defend within this invisible realm will be paramount.
For the UK Armed Forces, the need to adapt quickly is critical. Whether through advanced systems like Pulsar or by cultivating a generation of soldiers aware of the electromagnetic landscape, the military must evolve its approach to this unseen battlefield. The stakes are high, and the challenge is clear: Can the UK keep up in this new arena of warfare? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain, the fight for electromagnetic dominance is well and truly underway.
