How does the PLA view 'electronic warfare' and its role in modern conflicts?

• A. Electronic warfare disrupts only the adversary's supply chains.
• B. Electronic warfare disrupts adversaries' sensors, communications, and command networks, while protecting own systems.
• C. Electronic warfare is only theoretical and not practiced.
• D. Electronic warfare replaces all kinetic operations.

Answer: (B)

Electronic warfare in PLA doctrine centers on shaping the battlespace by exploiting the electromagnetic spectrum to deny the enemy access to key information while safeguarding one’s own information and capabilities. The idea is to disrupt adversaries’ sensors, communications, and command and control networks, which hampers their situational awareness, decision cycles, and ability to coordinate actions. By degrading what the enemy can see, hear, and decide, PLA forces gain tempo and initiative for operations across air, space, and cyber domains, while keeping their own networks protected through hardening, encryption, spectrum management, and anti-jamming measures.

This approach is practical and integrated, not theoretical. Electronic warfare is viewed as a core part of information-centric warfare, enabling precision strikes and sustained operations by crippling the enemy’s ability to observe and respond while ensuring PLA systems remain reliable and resilient. It does not replace kinetic actions; rather, it complements them by creating favorable conditions for them to prevail.