US to investigate China use of electromagnetic spectrum in war
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The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission seeks analysis of China's use of electromagnetic spectrum resources in military, economic, and global contexts.
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Military delegates march to the Great Hall of the People to attend a plenary session of China's National People's Congress, in Beijing, March 8, 2025. (AP)
The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission has issued a request for proposals seeking a detailed analysis of China’s electromagnetic spectrum warfare capabilities and usage in potential conflict scenarios, according to a document released by the panel on Monday.
The commission invited submissions for a one-time, unclassified report titled "China’s Management of Electromagnetic Spectrum Resources." The study aims to provide insights into China’s military spectrum usage, its technological applications, and the broader economic and strategic impacts of China’s activities in this domain.
US-China panel seeks report on China's military spectrum usage
Established in 2000, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission is tasked with assessing national security implications of the US-China relationship. The latest request focuses on understanding how China leverages the electromagnetic spectrum in military operations, including the protocols it employs within its defense systems.
Focus on warfare, technology
The electromagnetic spectrum, which includes radio waves, microwaves, infrared, ultraviolet light, and X-rays, is vital for modern defense, enabling communication, surveillance, and reconnaissance. The commission aims to evaluate how China integrates these resources in technology warfare, including offensive and defensive measures in potential conflicts.
Additionally, the panel seeks to understand how the spectrum can be used to disrupt similar capabilities in adversaries, a growing concern in electromagnetic spectrum defense strategies globally.
Global, economic implications
Beyond military applications, the commission is interested in assessing the global ramifications of China's spectrum management and identifying any commercial and economic advantages that may arise from China’s leadership in this area.
The deadline for proposal submissions is May 19, as stated in the document.
In other news
Meanwhile, for the first time, China has become the global leader in total nuclear energy capacity, with the China Nuclear Energy Administration reporting that the country currently has 102 nuclear power units either in operation, under construction, or approved, amounting to a total capacity of 113 million kilowatts.
The report further stated that China currently has 28 nuclear power units under construction with a combined capacity of 33.65 million kilowatts, maintaining its position as the global leader in nuclear construction capacity for 18 consecutive years.
China also currently operates 58 commercial nuclear power units with a total capacity of 60.96 million kilowatts, while the country's nuclear power generation continues to expand.
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