Suppression of Enemy Air Defense Within Twenty Kilometers of the Forward Edge of the Battle Area

This study attempts to determine if joint electronic warfare can be employed to suppress enemy air defenses within twenty kilometers of the forward edge of the battle area. The investigation is focused on an analysis of why joint electronic warfare is needed to suppress enemy air defenses. The investigation reveals that the quantity and diversity of Soviet ground air defense system have increased to the point that close air support will be ineffective without augmented electronic warfare support. Since Air Force electronic warfare support assets are limited, an alternate source must be sought for this capability. Within 20 kilometers of the forward edge of the battle area, Army EW could possibly provide this support. However, more work is required on the part of the Army and Air Force to make joint EW an effective means of suppressing enemy air defenses.