Army Struggles with Electronic Warfare and AI Disinformation in Wargames
WASHINGTON — Army brigades are facing significant challenges in overcoming electronic warfare and AI-generated disinformation during wargames at the National Training Center (NTC) in the Mojave Desert, according to recent observations from the Opposing Force (OPFOR), the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. The NTC simulates real-world combat scenarios, utilizing both simulated attacks and actual radio jamming to test visiting units.
A key issue identified by OPFOR officers is the over-reliance on technology among visiting units. Once their high-tech networks are disrupted, they often lack the adaptability and technical skills to effectively utilize backup systems, explained Capt. Jake Thomas, who heads the information warfare section of the OPFOR staff. “We are definitely seeing, many times over, an over-reliance on technology,” he said.
Despite the challenges, the OPFOR acknowledges that completely shutting down visiting units’ communications isn’t always possible. A newly upgraded tactical satellite (TACSAT) system, being deployed to battalion headquarters and higher echelons, proves particularly difficult to jam. Even units with less advanced technology can revert to backup communication methods, adhering to the Army’s PACE plan – Primary, Alternative, Contingency, and Emergency – which calls for four layers of communication redundancy.
However, the effectiveness of these backup systems is hampered by their lack of features compared to the primary networks. Soldiers accustomed to digital maps with real-time updates may find themselves relying on static-filled radio calls or low-bandwidth text chats. This loss of situational awareness slows decision-making and can lead to uncoordinated maneuvers, making units vulnerable to OPFOR attacks.
Capt. Jonathan Maher, former deputy commander for Centaur Squadron, which controls most of OPFOR’s electronic warfare assets, noted that while units are able to utilize their PACE plans, the switch to backup systems introduces delays. “[But] those communications between the higher and lower echelons take longer … It ultimately creates a slower reaction that gives us a tactical advantage,” he said.
Former Commander of Centaur Capt. Ethan Christensen added that the OPFOR often achieves success by exploiting this slower reaction time, causing units to “commit combat power in a piecemeal fashion.”
The OPFOR employs a variety of tactics to disrupt communications and sow confusion. One technique involves intercepting the radio frequencies used by visiting units to control drones, allowing OPFOR personnel to eavesdrop on drone feeds and even obtain GPS coordinates for simulated precision strikes. More concerningly, the OPFOR is now leveraging generative AI to create and disseminate disinformation, including deepfake audio of visiting commanders issuing false orders.
“We’ve tested it successfully here,” said Col. Kevin Black, commander of the 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment. “Anything from AI-generated memes to AI-generated operational orders, AI-generated voice manipulation and spoofing.”
Training Shortfalls and Culture Gaps
A contributing factor to these vulnerabilities is a disconnect between combat arms officers and the complexities of communication systems. Tank and infantry officers may lack a deep understanding of the systems they rely on, while signal soldiers may not fully grasp how their systems integrate into the broader battle plan.
“There is certainly that divide,” said Thomas, who initially trained as an infantryman. “The role I am filling within the Regiment currently is essentially bridging that gap. [It’s] definitely a steep learning curve that can boggle my mind even now.”
The OPFOR benefits from extensive experience, conducting eight to ten simulated battles against visiting brigades annually. This constant practice is difficult to replicate across the entire Army. The OPFOR also maintains a larger inventory of jammers and drones than a typical brigade, though it has fewer armored vehicles.
Col. Black believes the Army can learn from the OPFOR’s training methods. While the Regiment utilizes the same advanced digital systems as other units, it prioritizes reliance on multiple communication layers. “We’re pushing [information] on multiple levels all the time, whether it’s through our primary or alternate, the contingency or the emergency network, and it doesn’t slow us down if, hey, all of a sudden [one’s] not working,” he explained.
The key, according to Black, is empowering junior leaders to take initiative and switch to backup systems without waiting for higher-level approval or technical support. This requires a strong understanding of communication status and the confidence to act decisively. “The number one thing is those junior leaders you’ve entrusted and empowered up front are probably the best I’ve ever seen at jumping through our PACE plan,” Black said. “That troop commander is the one making those decisions, down front. … If we get jammed, if we lose our technical capabilities, our leaders can still execute.”
