OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Nebraska — April 6, 2026: The United States Strategic Command (USSTRATCOM) conducted its inaugural electromagnetic spectrum-focused tabletop exercise, titled Aurora Pulse, from March 24 to March 26, 2026, at the Gen. Curtis LeMay Command and Control Facility near Offutt Air Force Base. The exercise brought together military and government personnel to examine operational readiness in increasingly complex electromagnetic environments.
The event was organized by USSTRATCOM’s Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Center (JEC) and included operations and planning officers from across the U.S. uniformed services, unified combatant commands, the Joint Staff, and multiple government agencies. The exercise was designed to evaluate how joint forces plan and operate within the electromagnetic spectrum during crisis and conflict scenarios.
Focus on Contested and Congested Spectrum Conditions
The Aurora Pulse exercise centered on challenges associated with electromagnetic spectrum operations (EMSO), particularly in environments where the spectrum is both contested by adversary forces and congested due to expanded civilian and commercial usage. Officials noted that the scenarios also incorporated austere operating conditions, adding complexity to decision-making and coordination efforts.
Participants worked through two full days of simulated scenarios aimed at testing existing tactics, operational procedures, and response frameworks under degraded conditions. The exercise assessed how effectively forces could maintain operational capability when access to the electromagnetic spectrum is limited or disrupted.
Leadership Emphasizes Integration in Military Planning
Ahead of the exercise, U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael Lutton, deputy commander of USSTRATCOM, addressed participants and highlighted the importance of incorporating electromagnetic spectrum considerations into defense planning processes.
He stated that adversaries actively operate within the electromagnetic domain and that maintaining operational freedom depends on achieving and sustaining electromagnetic spectrum superiority. Lutton also noted that the ability to function effectively in contested spectrum conditions is increasingly relevant to modern military operations.
Objectives and Learning Outcomes
U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. AnnMarie Anthony, director of the Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Center, outlined the primary objectives of the exercise. She stated that one of the key goals was to improve understanding of how to approach EMSO-related challenges, including identifying the appropriate expertise and coordination mechanisms required during operations.
Anthony noted that the electromagnetic environment is evolving rapidly, with increasing congestion and competition affecting both military and civilian users. She indicated that these conditions present operational challenges that require improved coordination, awareness, and planning.
Role of USSTRATCOM and Future Implications
Under the Department of Defense’s Unified Command Plan, USSTRATCOM is responsible for overseeing and advocating for joint electromagnetic spectrum operations across the U.S. military. Officials stated that exercises such as Aurora Pulse are intended to enhance coordination among participating organizations, identify procedural gaps, and improve overall readiness.
The outcomes of the exercise are expected to support the refinement of Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Center practices and procedures, as well as contribute to future standardization efforts. These efforts aim to strengthen the integration of electromagnetic spectrum considerations into broader military planning and operational decision-making.
No additional details regarding specific scenario outcomes or classified elements of the exercise were released.
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