UK pursuing options for airborne electromagnetic attack

The Ministry of Defence is exploring options to develop an airborne electromagnetic attack capability as part of wider efforts to strengthen operations in the electromagnetic battlespace.

Responding to a written parliamentary question from Conservative MP Ben Obese-Jecty, Defence Minister Luke Pollard said the department recognises the importance of electromagnetic warfare and is examining potential solutions through both near-term initiatives and longer-term research and development programmes.

The question asked what progress had been made in developing an airborne electromagnetic attack capability capable of running proven counter-C5ISRT software, including third-party applications.

In his reply, Pollard said the MOD was encouraging innovation across the defence industrial sector while assessing possible approaches to meeting operational requirements.

“I welcome innovation across the Defence industrial sector,” Pollard said. “The Ministry of Defence is aware of the importance of the Electromagnetic battlespace and is pursuing a number of options, both in the near-term and in the research and development programme, to address military needs.”

Electromagnetic attack capabilities are designed to disrupt or degrade enemy command, communications, intelligence and surveillance systems by targeting the electronic spectrum.