Likewise, the interception of communications may disclose not only the contents of the messages, but also the locations and identities of the communicators. For example, the detection and location of emissions of the search and tracking radars of mobile air defense units provide valuable assistance to the planning of tactical air strikes. These electronic intelligence (ELINT) gathering satellites listen patiently to the radio and radar emissions of ground, air and sea emitters. 4 In this regard,Ī kindred class of satellites monitor the Earth, not in the optical portion of the electromagnetic spectrum but through the radio and radar atmospheric windows. capabilities “is the ability to detect” enemy activity through the manipulation of the electromagnetic spectrum. That is the point against which all our energies should be directed.” 3 One example of this is the electronic intelligence that U.S. Out of these characteristics a certain center of gravity develops, the hub of all power and movement, on which everything depends. To state Carl von Clausewitz’s famous dictum, “One must keep the dominant characteristics of both belligerents in mind. The timing signal of the GPS has become ubiquitous for ATM time stamps across digital nations, and the GPS positioning capacities have become vital for a vast array of other commercial activities as well, “ranging from just-in-time logistics, international air and maritime traffic control, and the functioning of cellular telephone networks.” 2 1 For example, the GPS enables the digitization of national economies. Fischer commented, “Beautiful expanse of stars-but the ‘long’ orange one is SpaceX-11 reentering!” (Photo courtesy of NASA)ĭigital nations have centers of gravity (COGs) that are critical to their functioning: space-based assets. (EDT) before splashing down in the Pacific Ocean west of Baja, California. NASA astronaut Jack Fischer photographed the SpaceX Dragon capsule as it reentered Earth’s atmosphere 3 July 2017 at 8:12 a.m.