EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The 350th Spectrum Warfare Wing (SWW) has launched a new internal training course, Intro to Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations (I-EMSO), to enhance understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum and its role in modern warfare.
The weeklong I-EMSO course provides personnel deeper knowledge of spectrum components and their impact on military operations, focusing on technical and strategic aspects essential for communication, navigation, and targeting systems.
“Our mission requires us to defend and manipulate the electromagnetic spectrum,” said Lt. Col. Kyra Trask, 388th Electronic Warfare Squadron commander. “I-EMSO provides foundational knowledge necessary to execute this critical mission, regardless of role.”
Previously, the wing relied on annual visits from the 479th Operations Support Squadron’s mobile training team for introductory electromagnetic warfare (EW) training. The 388th EWS training flight developed I-EMSO by tailoring the 479th OSS course with input from 350th SWW subject matter experts to ensure accuracy and applicability.
“Creating I-EMSO was challenging but also an exciting opportunity,” said Capt. Makenna Elliott, 388th EWS training flight commander. “We emphasized practical application, helping personnel leverage the spectrum in real-world situations.”
While many wing personnel have EW experience, the course benefits both experienced personnel and newcomers.
“As an aircraft maintainer, my EMSO knowledge was limited to EW system operations and EW theory on fighter jets,” said Master Sgt. Kristofferson Nunez, 87th Electronic Warfare Squadron combat shield flight chief. “This course significantly broadened my understanding beyond the flightline, attuning me to the wing’s unique mission and how units achieve EW dominance.”
I-EMSO covers electromagnetic spectrum basics, its military role, protection and exploitation methods, and growing EW challenges like coordination and adversarial actions.
“The electromagnetic spectrum is a contested environment in modern warfare,” Elliott said. “I-EMSO ensures our personnel are ready for this critical mission's growing demands and complexities.”
The course is part of the wing's strategy to enhance operational readiness for a rapidly evolving technological landscape.