Russia and Ukraine Race for Control of the Electromagnetic Battlefield

Russia and Ukraine are locked in an accelerating electronic warfare contest, using jamming, electronic deception and artificial intelligence to disrupt enemy weapons while keeping their own systems operating.

The struggle centres on control of the electromagnetic spectrum, an invisible battlefield where interference with signals can undermine the effectiveness of drones and missiles without a direct strike.

Jamming aims to interrupt the signals these weapons depend on, while electronic deception seeks to mislead systems rather than simply cut their connections. Both approaches are part of the effort to disable an opponent’s capabilities.

Artificial intelligence is also becoming part of the competition as the two sides seek ways to overcome opposing electronic defences. The challenge is not only to disrupt enemy systems, but also to bypass interference directed at their own weapons.

The result is a continuing race between disruption and adaptation. Both sides are seeking an advantage in the spectrum that could help shape the outcome of the wider confrontation.