By Prof (Dr) Nishakant Ojha
The electromagnetic spectrum is as vital to the battlefield as any traditional resource, such as fuel, water, or food. It encompasses the range of natural radiation used by radios, radars, and televisions to transmit signals rapidly over great distances. In modern military operations, especially within the Indian military, information systems that rely on access to the spectrum are crucial. Any threat to this access is a significant concern.
However, the electromagnetic spectrum is a limited resource that has become increasingly valuable. The Indian Army, one of the largest consumers of the spectrum globally, now faces a growing challenge from the commercial telecommunications industry, which is eager to expand its services and increase profits, thereby competing for spectrum access.
To protect national security and ensure the effectiveness of military operations, it is essential for nations to reserve specific spectrum frequencies exclusively for defence purposes. Secure, reliable, and interference-free communication networks are essential for transmitting sensitive and classified information. As 5G technology advances and 6G looms on the horizon, the need for dedicated spectrum becomes even more critical. These technologies offer significant advantages, including ultra-low latency, high-speed data transfer, and support for autonomous systems and advanced reconnaissance. The sub-6GHz spectrum is especially valuable for military applications due to its ability to penetrate obstacles and maintain reliable communication over long distances.
By allocating dedicated spectrum, defence forces can utilize a mature technology ecosystem, which reduces costs, improves equipment availability, and accelerates the deployment of advanced capabilities. On the other hand, sharing spectrum with civilian operators introduces risks like interference, jamming, and cyberattacks. It can also lead to operational disruptions due to congestion, particularly during emergencies. Moreover, managing shared spectrum requires complex regulatory frameworks and coordination, which can delay military operations.
Recognizing these challenges, several countries have reserved specific spectrum bands for defence purposes. NATO, for example, uses the 4.4GHz to 5GHz range for secure military communications and radar systems. The UK and Australia have also reserved parts of the sub-6GHz spectrum for defence, ensuring secure communication networks. The U.S. Department of Defence (DoD) controls significant portions of the sub-6GHz spectrum and avoids sharing these frequencies with commercial operators to maintain security and operational reliability. The U.S. approach highlights the importance of dedicated spectrum to prevent interference and ensure secure, reliable military communications. Sharing spectrum requires complex regulatory frameworks and coordination between military and civilian authorities, potentially leading to bureaucratic delays and hindering defence operations during crises.
In India, the situation has recently changed. The defence sector, which previously had dedicated spectrum access, has seen these frequencies auctioned to mobile operators. This development poses a risk to national security, as defence communications could suffer from interference and congestion from civilian networks, especially during critical operations.
Indian authorities should reconsider dedicating specific spectrum bands for defence. Learning from international examples, it is clear that a secure and reliable spectrum is essential for defence operations. Allocating popular spectrum bands used for 5G and future 6G technologies would significantly benefit the defence sector, while using less common bands could limit access to advanced technology, increase costs, and slow innovation.
India should reallocate specific sub-6GHz spectrum bands exclusively for military use. Bands like 4500-4800 Hz, 703-748/758-803, and 7300-4200 MHz are among the most harmonized bands that should be fully dedicated to the Tri-Service and, to some extent, to paramilitary forces deployed along the borders like BSF, SSB ,ITBP & CRPF. It is understood that some strategic and tactical weapons, including Air Defence Systems, already operate in these bands. This allocation would ensure secure, interference-free communication channels, future-proof India’s military capabilities, and align with international best practices.
As of my understanding the Indian Army is adapting to the changing landscape of autonomous and tactical warfare, with an estimated “nearly 800,000 spectrum-dependent systems,” according to a report detailing the military’s spectrum requirements (both directly & Indirectly). While many details of defence spectrum usage are classified, systems generally include communications, radar, electronic combat, and navigation. Additionally, spectrum access is needed for training, testing, security, and fire control at military installations.
A single military fighter aircraft carries multiple systems that depend on the spectrum, including:
Radar altimeter; Joint Tactical Information Distribution System; Global Positioning System (GPS); Instrument landing system; Fire-control radar; Electronic warfare systems for jamming or detecting enemy radars.
The range of spectrum required for a single platform is extensive. The more systems onboard, the greater the need for spectrum. As Department of Defence platforms have become more complex to support the need for increased mobility and precision in operations, the likelihood of radio interference has grown, further complicating the issue of sharing or reallocating the spectrum to commercial users.
Recently, concerns have been raised about interference with GPS signals due to the use of ultrawideband radar, a low-powered technology that has found applications in commercial systems. Ultrawideband radar is used for detection and ranging, but it has also been adapted into devices like stud finders to help locate nails hidden in walls.
In summary, the electromagnetic spectrum encompasses various forms of radiation, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, ultraviolet rays, X-rays, and gamma rays. All forms of electromagnetic radiation travel at the speed of light—186,000 miles per second. What differentiates them is their wavelength, which is directly related to the amount of energy they carry. Shorter wavelengths carry higher energy.
In conclusion, the allocation of dedicated spectrum is crucial for India’s national security. As technologies like 5G and 6G become increasingly integral to defence, India must prioritize secure spectrum allocation to maintain operational superiority and respond effectively to emerging threats while leveraging a mature and cost-effective technology ecosystem. NATO’s approach underscores the importance of dedicated military spectrum, with key NATO-designated bands, such as 225–400 MHz, 1350–1452 MHz, 4400–5000 MHz, and 7.9–8.4 GHz, reserved exclusively for military use to ensure secure, interference-free communications. India should adopt a similar strategy to protect its defence communications.
About the Author: He has extensive expertise in spectrum management, blending both scientific and strategic knowledge. Currently, he is deeply involved in researching the integration of 5G and 6G technologies into national security frameworks. He is Advisor- Cyber & Aerospace Security; Eminent Expert- Counter Terrorism (West Asia & Middle East).
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