Combined Republic of Korea (ROK) and United States forces recently got firsthand looks at a PR-200 spectrum analyzer designed to detect electromagnetic intrusions, signals of interest and jamming within a contested area.
U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Elliot Rappoport demonstrated the device during a team-building session at Camp Humphreys, South Korea, in mid-October 2024. Practical exercises showed troops the analyzer’s capabilities.
The PR-200 can map and analyze emissions within a specific electromagnetic operational environment (EMOE). That enables forces to detect electromagnetic interference and suspicious signals that might interfere with ROK or U.S. communications. Identification and analysis of such emissions then allow ROK and U.S. forces to prevent intrusions into military radios, power generators and personal mobile phones. Timely spectrum analysis is critical to offense and defense. For example, detection of electronic signatures can enable real-time kinetic targeting, as seen in the war in Ukraine.
Attendees included the ROK Information Operations Division, the U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) Information Operations Division, and cyber and electromagnetic activities personnel.
The exercises demonstrated transmissions within an EMOE and addressed signature reduction to ensure that adversaries can’t access sensitive information.
“Team building is vital for fostering trust, unity and effective communication among our Korean partners,” said Col. James D. Beall, director of USFK’s information operations. “In high-stress and critical situations, having a cohesive team can be the difference between success and failure.”
The spectrum analyzer demonstration enhanced discussions on increasing USFK operations security by mapping EMOEs.
By equipping service members, government civilians and contractors with knowledge and skills to safeguard sensitive information such as electromagnetic emissions, the ROK and U.S. ensure operations are not compromised by information leaks or other security breaches. This proactive approach to operational security is essential in a rapidly changing and increasingly interconnected world.
The ROK-U.S. alliance is at the forefront of developing EMOE technology to support its mission to deter aggression and defend the ROK. Such team-building activities help develop leadership skills, boost morale and ensure personnel feel valued and connected to the mission, said ROK Marine Col. Dong Woo Lee, deputy director of the ROK Combined Forces Command’s communications operations. “It’s not just about executing orders; it’s about creating a bond that enhances overall mission readiness and resilience.”
