Counteracting imagery (IMINT), optoelectronic (EOIMINT) and radar (SAR) intelligence

Abstract

The development of military technique and technology forces necessary changes in military reconnaissance using advanced methods of contemporary battlefield imaging. This paper addresses the topic of imagery intelligence as an essential source for gaining information about the deployment and quantity of means and forces of a potential enemy. Currently, armies of the world are equipped with modern imagery intelligence systems that make it possible to collect, process and analyse the collected data on enemy’s troops and the environment in which the enemy operates. The purpose of the study is to present the proper role of camouflage undertakings that make it possible to counteract imagery, optoelectronic and radar intelligence. The increasing capabilities in this problem area mean that in the near future intelligence tasks will be carried out not only by ground, space or naval systems, but primarily by reconnaissance aircraft and unmanned aerial systems. In accordance with the problem indicated in the topic, the paper brings closer the possibilities of counteracting imagery intelligence from the theoretical and practical perspective. In addition, it presents the latest camouflage solutions employed both in the Polish Armed Forces and other selected armies. At the end of the paper, the authors formulate the most important conclusions that constitute a generalisation of the results of studies presented in different parts of the publication.