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Electronic intelligence (ELINT)

Definition

Electronic intelligence (ELINT) is a form of intelligence-gathering that involves the interception of non-communication signals, primarily those coming from electronic systems used in defense and weaponry. The data collected can provide valuable information about the capabilities, activities, and intentions of an adversary. This might include details about radar systems, navigation patterns, aircraft systems, missile command controls, and other electronic systems.

Key Takeaways

  1. Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) is a type of intelligence gathering that involves the interception and analysis of electronic signals, primarily from non-communication sources such as radar and other electronic systems used in weapons, navigation and early warning systems.
  2. ELINT is a crucial aspect of modern military and naval operations, allowing forces to understand the electronic signature, capabilities, and locations of enemy hardware and systems. This knowledge enables effective counter-measures, aids in mission planning, and supports strategic decision-making.
  3. ELINT can be broadly categorized into two subclasses: Technical ELINT and Operational ELINT. Technical ELINT concentrates on the technical aspects of foreign signals such as frequency, power, and signal characteristics. In contrast, Operational ELINT focuses on locating and identifying the functions of the emitting radars and radar-controlled weapon systems.

Importance

Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) is crucial in military operations due to its role in collecting, processing, and analyzing non-communications electronic signals.

ELINT serves to identify, track, and predict the capabilities and intentions of potential adversaries, providing the military with valuable insight into enemy strategies and behaviors.

Additionally, it contributes to defense systems by detecting, intercepting, and jamming enemy signals, thereby helping protect military personnel and assets from potential threats.

High-quality situational awareness provided by ELINT also enhances decision making and operational effectiveness in military engagements.

It plays an imperative role in affording a strategic edge in a technology-centered battlefield scenario.

Explanation

Electronic Intelligence, often known as ELINT, is a fundamental aspect of military operations that crucially helps in maintaining security and carrying out strategic tasks. It primarily entails the use of technology to gather intelligence through the interception and analysis of signals from various electronic systems, including radars, communications systems, and navigation aids, among others.

ELINT’s purpose is to ensure the timely detection, evaluation, and monitoring of electronic signals and systems that provide crucial insights into adversaries’ capabilities, intentions, operations, and technological advancements. Its applications are diverse, playing a key role in various areas of military operations.

ELINT helps in developing a precise electronic order of battle (EOB) by identifying and understanding the electronic systems operated by the enemy, reducing the uncertainties in hostile environs. More so, it is essential in planning and conducting electronic warfare by predicting the adversaries’ actions and mitigating their electronic capabilities.

Moreover, ELINT data can feed into missile defense systems to increase their accuracy and efficiency. Thus, ELINT serves the crucial purpose of paving the way for a technologically superior, secure, and efficient military operation.

Examples of Electronic intelligence (ELINT)

Cuban Missile Crisis: During the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, ELINT was used extensively by the US military. The U-2 aircraft, fitted with advanced electrotechnical intelligence devices, captured signals that confirmed the presence of Soviet ballistic missiles in Cuba. The airborne ELINT platform detected telemetry and radar signals from the missile bases, which played a critical role in understanding the severity and extent of threats posed by these missiles.

Operation Desert Storm: In the first Gulf War during the 1990s, ELINT was key to the allied coalition’s military success. Advanced systems intercepted, processed, and analyzed military communications, establishing the locations, capabilities, and intentions of Iraqi forces, significantly aiding in strategic planning, and real-time tactical decision-making.

The Cold War: Throughout the duration of the Cold War, both the USA and the Soviet Union used ELINT as a prime method of gauging each other’s military capabilities and activities. For example, the US Air Force used the RB-47 aircraft equipped with ELINT technology to monitor Soviet radar and other electronic transmissions. These operations provided highly classified and invaluable information on Soviet military capacity, which guided US’s defense strategies and diplomacy.

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FAQ Section: Electronic Intelligence (ELINT)

What is Electronic Intelligence (ELINT)?

Electronic Intelligence (ELINT) is a sub-branch of signals intelligence that involves the interception and analysis of non-communication signals such as radar and weapon systems.

What are the main uses of ELINT?

ELINT is primarily used for defensive applications such as early warning systems, navigation systems, and for surveillance. It provides valuable information about the capabilities, locations, and intentions of foreign military forces.

How does ELINT work?

ELINT systems capture, process, and analyze electronic signal data from a variety of sources. They focus on signals that are not primarily used for communication but for other purposes like the operation of radar.

What is the difference between ELINT and SIGINT?

SIGINT refers to the overall field of taking information from foreign signals, whereas ELINT is a subfield of SIGINT that deals specifically with electronic non-communication signals.

Who typically operates ELINT systems?

ELINT systems are typically operated by specialized military and governmental agencies whose job it is to gather intelligence for national security purposes.

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Related Military Operation Terms

  • Signal Analysis
  • Radar Emission Identification
  • Electronic Surveillance
  • Data Collection
  • Communication Interception

Sources for More Information

  • National Security Agency (NSA): The National Security Agency is a national-level intelligence agency of the United States Department of Defense, under the authority of the Director of National Intelligence. Information related to ELINT can be found here.
  • Federation of American Scientists (FAS): The Federation of American Scientists is a nonpartisan, international organization that uses independent scientific research and analysis to advance global security. You can find details on the ELINT aspect under their ‘Intelligence’ section.
  • Airforce Technology: Airforce Technology is a procurement and reference site providing a one-stop-shop for professionals and decision makers within the global Defence industry. It provides insights into various military technologies including ELINT.
  • GlobalSecurity.org: GlobalSecurity.org is a leading source of background information and developing news stories in the fields of defense, space, intelligence, WMD, and homeland security. ELINT has been covered under their ‘Military’ section.

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