Spectrum Management and Electromagnetic Compatibility Issues in the Department of Defense

As devices of an electronic and electromagnetic nature grow in complexity, so too do the intricacies surrounding their use. If they are to operate predictably and reliably, they must be able to operate in their intended operational environments without suffering or causing unacceptable degradation because of electromagnetic radiation or response. That ability is known as electromagnetic compatibility EMC, and its already profound importance will inevitably grow as we rely more and more upon technology. For civil systems, inadequate EMC results in inefficient spectral utilization and economic loss. For military systems, the consequences can be disastrous. Hence, assurance of EMC of military systems is imperative. In this Note, we survey both technical and administrative issues of EMC and use of the electromagnetic spectrum, especially as pertaining to the Department of Defense DoD, from the past through the present.