Editing Electronic warfare

{{Status|Canon}}
{{Wikipedia}}
[[File:HR NewAlexandria HospitalJammer.png|thumb|300px|A [[Covenant]] [[Covenant communications jammer|communications jammer]] inside [[New Alexandria Hospital]].]]

'''Electronic warfare''' (also known as '''EW''' or '''EWAR''') is warfare involving the use of the [[Wikipedia:Electromagnetic spectrum|electromagnetic spectrum]] or [[Directed-energy weapon|directed energy]] to attack an enemy, impede an enemy's use of the electromagnetic spectrum, or collect information.

==Overview==
===Attack===
Electronic attack (EA), or [[Wikipedia:Electronic countermeasures|electronic countermeasures]] (ECM), is the offensive use of the electromagnetic spectrum or directed energy weapons to attack enemy personnel, facilities, or equipment with the intent to diminish or eliminate enemy combat capability. The most common form of electronic attack is "jamming." In its broadest sense, any [[laser]], [[Plasma weaponry|plasma]], [[Particle beam weapon|particle beam]], and [[hard light]] weapon could be considered a form of electronic attack given that they utilize directed energy to attack targets. However, these are commonly considered standard munitions and generally do not have any of the functionality typically associated with electronic warfare technologies.

===Protection===
Electronic protection (EP), or [[Wikipedia:Electronic counter-countermeasure|electronic counter-countermeasures]] (ECCM), are measures taken to protect against electronic attack or to minimize the effectiveness of the use of the electromagnetic spectrum by the enemy. These measures include many forms of stealth technology intended to hide friendly personnel, vehicles, or facilities from view. Additionally, the means of hardening electronic devices against the effects of [[electromagnetic pulse]]s falls under electronic protection. Electronic protection most often takes the form of active and passive stealth technologies.

===Support===
Electronic warfare support (ES) involves technology and measures taken to detect, intercept, or locate sources of electromagnetic energy for the purpose of tactical benefit. Electronic support most often takes the form of [[COM|communication]] interception.

==Electronic warfare in naval combat==
===Human usage===
[[File:H5G Anlace Concept Cutout.png|thumb|right|300px|An ''Anlace''-class light frigate.]]
Some classes of [[United Nations Space Command]] [[UNSC starship|warships]] possess electronic countermeasure systems. The {{Class|Paris|heavy frigate}}'s countermeasures are capable of jamming an {{Pattern|Ceudar|heavy corvette}}'s communications for several minutes, as evidenced by the {{UNSCShip|Savannah}} disrupting the ''[[Ardent Prayer]]''{{'}}s communications during [[Operation: UPPER CUT]].{{Ref/Level|Id=LNoS|HR|Long Night of Solace (level)}} {{Class|Anlace|light frigate}}s have the option of being equipped with electronic warfare modules, allowing them to mask a UNSC presence or inhibit communication between enemy ships.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P121|Enc22|Page=121}} When employed in pairs, two ''Anlace''-class frigates are capable of projecting a jamming blanket around an entire [[planet]], preventing communications within this zone.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P121}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=SOR13|HSoR|Chapter=13}}

[[File:UNSC Aladdin - HQ.png|thumb|left|300px|The ''Sahara''-class heavy prowler, {{UNSCShip|Aladdin}}, deactivates its active camouflage field.]]
Given their widespread use in stealth [[wikipedia:Infiltration tactics|infiltration]]/[[wikipedia:Extraction (military)|exfiltration]], all classes of [[prowler]] notably feature electronic protection capabilities in the form of stealth technology, but many also include electronic attack and support technologies to directly assist in military actions and to gather intelligence.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P129|Enc22|Page=129}} Prowlers' hulls are often covered in a [[stealth ablative coating]] that make the vessel's profile virtually undetectable when targeted by [[radar]], though requires extensive maintenance.{{Ref/Novel|Id=GoO291|GoO|Page=291}} This coating is often paired with [[active camouflage]] technologies such as [[texture buffer]]s to make the vessels invisible to visual detection as well.{{Ref/Novel|Id=GOO32|GoO|Chapter=32}}{{Ref/Reuse|Warfleet46}} The largest member of the prowler family—the {{Class|Point Blank|prowler}}—makes use of powerful jamming technology capable of blocking all outbound communications within a targeted area.{{Ref/Novel|Id=HSS7|HSS|Chapter=7}} The {{Class|Sahara|heavy prowler}} incorporates a large dish on its dorsal surface that contains both passive and active sensor systems for narrow-band signal manipulation. Additionally, the vessel features parallel passive phased-scanners for long-ranged threat detection.{{Ref/Book|Id=VIS|H4EVG|Page=190}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Mythos140|HM|Page=140}} Perhaps most interestingly, the ''Sahara''-class includes two [[XEV9-Matos nonlinear pulse cannon]]s capable of disabling enemy warships via [[Electromagnetic pulse|EMP]], one of the most direct methods of electronic attack.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P129}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=HGL9|Gla|Chapter=9}} The {{Class|Winter|prowler}} is particularly well-suited to electronic warfare with a full suite of cloaking technologies designed to reduce and distort their emissions and sensor profile. If detected, the ''Winter''-class's turrets even incorporate electronic warfare countermeasure dispensers that can launch projectiles such as heat sinks and deception jammers to confuse sensors or break target locks.{{Ref/Book|Id=Warfleet46|HWF|Page=46-47}} The {{Class|Chiroptera|subprowler}} incorporates advanced counter-intrusion software to protect against electronic attacks.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc11|Enc11|Page=259}}

Several classes of UNSC [[dropship]] incorporate electronic warfare technologies. These include the [[U81 Condor]], a variant of the [[D81-LRT Condor]] dropship that features an advanced electronic warfare suite and passive sensor array.{{Ref/Site|Id=Waypoint|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/vehicles/d81-lrt-condor|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Condor|D=30|M=06|Y=2021}} The [[D77-TC Pelican]] includes several forms of electronic warfare technologies including wide-spectrum flares, microdrone decoys, rainbow laser blinders, RADAR/LIDAR sensors, directional jammers, and "hard chop" guillotines on data processing modules to minimize their susceptibility to cyber intrusion.{{Ref/Book|Id=Warfleet44|HWF|Page=44-45}} ''[[Bogof]]'', a [[Pelican]] dropship attached to the {{UNSCShip|Port Stanley}}, was upgraded by the [[Huragok]] [[Requires Adjustment]] with reactive camouflage and an electronic warfare technologies.{{Ref/Novel|Id=HMD|HMorDi}} While it does not feature the stealth ablative coating or active camouflage technologies commonly featured on prowlers, the [[D102 Owl]] utilizes a nanoblack biopolymer coating for stealth functions.{{Ref/Novel|Id=SOR2|HSoR|Chapter=2}}

The UNSC also makes use of naval munitions which incorporate electronic warfare capabilities. UNSC missiles can be fitted with specialized warheads that conduct jamming and decoy functions to disrupt enemy countermeasures, therefore having the capability to function in both electronic attack and protection roles.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P115|Enc22|Page=115}} Professor [[Ellen Anders]] led a project to upgrade the {{UNSCShip|Spirit of Fire}}'s [[Magnetic Accelerator Cannon]]s that resulted in a specialized MAC round capable of emitting an EMP on impact, giving the weapon electronic attack potential.{{Ref/Level|HW2|The Cartographer}}

===Covenant usage===
[[File:HWF_T&RSensorVane Cutaway.png|thumb|right|300px|A cutaway of the sensor vanes on the {{Pattern|Ket|battlecruiser}}, ''[[Truth and Reconciliation]]''.]]
[[Covenant]] vessels such as the [[Covenant stealth ship|an unidentified class]] of stealth vessel possess electronic countermeasures to counter the [[guidance lock]]s on [[Archer missile]]s. One of these vessels used these countermeasures to disrupt missiles fired by the {{UNSCShip|Iroquois}} during the [[Battle of Sigma Octanus IV]]. This class also features active camouflage technologies to render the ship virtually invisible,{{Ref/Novel|Id=FoR195|HTFoR|Page=195-196}} a trait also shared by the Covenant [[intrusion corvette]]{{Ref/Novel|Id=HSS12|HSS|Chapter=12}} and {{Pattern|Akton|escort}}.{{Ref/Tabletop|Id=HFBADP|HFB|Detail=ADP-class escort in-game unit}} In the case of the intrusion corvette, it has been recorded that their stealth systems require consistent maintenance. If optimal maintenance practices are not met, the effectiveness of the intrusion corvette's stealth systems decreases dramatically.{{Ref/Novel|Id=HO5|Oblv|Chapter=5}} The {{Pattern|Makar|light corvette}} and {{Pattern|Ceudar|heavy corvette}} are both equipped with ''Ushab''-pattern [[Stealth shroud|stealth generators]], utilizing powerful distortion screens and a multispectral hypersink that renders the ships practically invisible to both human and Covenant long-range passive sensors. The ''Ceudar'' pattern also notably features a high-tier [[auspex array]], utilizing the electromagnetic spectrum to examine [[slipstream space]] for approaching ships or probe vast distances in realspace to instantly map local planetary systems. These systems can also detect the subtle changes in planetary or ship atmospheres, which indicates the presence of [[Flood]] contamination.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P376|Enc22|Page=376}} Much larger ships, such as the {{Pattern|Varric|heavy cruiser}} ''[[Incorruptible]]'', also possess electronic countermeasures for countering enemy [[Plasma turret|plasma torpedoes]], as well as counter-countermeasures.{{Ref/Novel|Id=GoO193|GoO|Page=193-194}} Several classes of Covenant warships—such as the {{pattern|Hekar Taa|blockade runner}} and {{Pattern|Mutan Et|storm cutter}}—feature [[hyperscanner]]s.{{Ref/Book|Id=WF18|HWF|Page=18}}{{Ref/Site|Id=Season5intel|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/reckoning-intel|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=Halo Infinite|Page=Reckoning Intel|D=01|M=01|Y=2024|LocalArchive=Halo Infinite Story & Intel#Season 5}} Hyperscanners provide extremely-detailed information on any object in range, including internal scans and structural composition. The sheer volume of data available generally overwhelm biological Covenant crews, and as a result their workstations typically filter anything not of immediate tactical significance.{{Ref/Reuse|WF18}} Several classes of warships—particularly [[Covenant cruiser|cruiser]]s—prominently feature external protrusions called [[sensor vane]]s, which either contain some or all of the ship's sensor equipment, or otherwise assist in their function.{{Ref/Site|Id=CFCalm|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/calm-in-the-storm|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Calm in the Storm|LocalArchive=https://archives.halopedia.org/waypoint/www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/calm-in-the-storm.html|D=04|M=08|Y=2021|Quote=No, although the sensor vane layout is often a way of helping to differentiate between different patterns. For example, if you look closely most of the battlecruisers you see in Halo 3 are actually different from than the Ket-pattern Truth and Reconciliation described in Halo: Warfleet (pp. 62-63), despite their similar fin arrangement.|Quotee=Kenneth Peters}}

''Hekar Taa''-pattern blockade runners feature stealth systems unrelated to the more modern Covenant stealth shroud concept, instead relying on brute-force jamming and the use of small drones to conceal the ship's location.{{Ref/Site|Id=hot drops|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/hot-drops-flag-caps|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Halo Community Update - Hot Drops & Flag Caps|D=01|M=03|Y=2021}}

===Banished usage===
[[File:Enc22 Drekar.png|thumb|right|300px|A Banished drekar.]]
Due to the nature of their formation, the Banished utilize many of the same naval vessels and technologies as the Covenant before them, including [[Covenant carrier|carrier]]s, [[Covenant cruiser|cruiser]]s, and [[Covenant corvette|corvette]]s. Notably, the Banished utilize modified Covenant intrusion corvettes and at least one ''Ceudar''-pattern heavy corvette,{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P460|Enc22|Page=460}}{{Ref/Comic|Id=HuntingParty1|[[Halo: Tales from Slipspace]]: [[Hunting Party]]}} both vessels featuring stealth systems as a form of electronic protection.{{Ref/Reuse|HSS12}}{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P376}} The Banished also field several [[Jiralhanae]]-designed electronic warfare technologies. While its origins are found in the final days of the Covenant, the [[drekar]] is a stealth vessel utilized by the Banished that combines Covenant technology with Jiralhanae construction methods.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P461|Enc22|Page=461}} Reaching back into the history of the Jiralhanae, the Banished has revitalized development of voltaic weaponry such as [[Wikipedia:Electrolaser|electrolasers]].{{Ref/Site|Id=CFBloodMoon|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-championship-chronicles|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - Championship Chronicles|D=6|M=1|Y=2024}} Primarily utilizing this technology for infantry weapons, the [[Banished dreadnought]] ''[[Ghost of Barolon]]'' was notably outfitted with an experimental electrolaser weapon.{{Ref/Reuse|Season5intel}}

===Forerunner usage===
[[File:Halo 5 - Guardian on Earth.jpg|thumb|left|250px|A Guardian prepares to fire an attenuation pulse in [[Earth]]'s orbit.]]
One of the most noteworthy uses of electronic warfare in naval combat is the [[Forerunner]]s' [[attenuation pulse emitter]], a multi-vector electronic warfare weapon that utilizes directed energy pulses and cyberwarfare payloads to neutralize and disrupt enemy systems.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P377|Enc22|Page=377}} The EMP-like blast generated by this weapon can spread across a planet rapidly, instantly disabling cities and spacecraft along with anything else reliant of electronics.{{Ref/Level|Id=H5Guardians|H5G|Guardians}} Notably, each [[Guardian Custode]] features two attenuation pulse emitters.{{Ref/Book|Id=WF88|HWF|Page=88-89}} Some Forerunner warships have the ability to project [[confinement field]]s to block the movement of enemy vessels. These energy fields are even capable of being projected into the interiors of enemy vessels to incapacitate the crew.{{Ref/Novel|Id=Cry193|Cry|Page=193}}

Forerunner vessels such as {{Class|Acolyte|harrier}}s feature advanced stealth capabilities which can make them more difficult to detect than UNSC prowlers.{{Ref/Novel|Id=Out6|Out|Chapter=6}} Another common form of electronic warfare technology fitted onto Forerunner starships is the [[Auspex array|ultrascanner]], a long-range scanning system that can examine slipspace for approaching ships and probe vast distances in realspace to instantly map local planetary systems. Ultrascanners can also detect the subtle changes in planetary or ship atmospheres that are indicative of [[Flood]] contamination.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P376|Enc22|Page=376}} {{Class|Sojourner|dreadnought}}s were fitted with ultrascanners during the [[Forerunner-Flood war]], and [[Sentinel]] models like the [[Regulator Sentinel|Regulator]] and [[Constructor]] are also equipped with low-tier ultrascanners.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P327|Enc22|Page=327}} [[Halo Array|Halo installations]] are known to feature electronic countermeasures in the form of a jamming barrier that can block communications on and around the Halo in an effort to keep the location of the installation unknown.{{Ref/Game|Id=terminal5|HCEA|Terminal (Halo: Combat Evolved Anniversary)#The Terminals|Terminal 5}}

==Electronic warfare in terrestrial combat==
===Human usage===
[[File:HW GremlinDisablesPylon.png|thumb|right|300px|An XRP12 Gremlin uses its EMP functionality to disable a Forerunner structure.]]
In the realm of terrestrial combat, human militaries utilize a myriad of electronic warfare technologies. Some are stationary structures like the [[watchtower]], an automated device sometime constructed alongside UNSC [[firebase]]s that uses microdrone clouds and former-Covenant hyperscanner technology to reveal enemy forces hidden by active camouflage.{{Ref/Game|Id=PLWatch|HW2|Phoenix Logs|Detail=Watchtower}} Other human electronic warfare devices are mounted on or deployed from vehicles, while still others are infantry-portable. The technology behind the [[XRP12 Gremlin]] has its origins during the [[Insurrection]] where the UNSC used it as a testbed for non-[[nuclear weapon|nuclear]] electromagnetic pulse technology, hoping to use it to remotely prevent the detonation of weapons of mass destruction.{{Ref/Book|Id=EVG|EVG|Page=83}} Following the Covenant's [[First Battle of Harvest|attack]] on [[Harvest]] at the dawn of the [[Human-Covenant War]], the Gremlin's [[X23 Non-Nuclear Electromagnetic Pulse Cannon]] was developed with the intent of using it to disrupt Covenant [[generator]]s and relay stations, though it also proved to be effective at disabling armored vehicles.{{Ref/Book|Halo Wars: Official Strategy Guide|Page=38|Section=Firebase Units}} [[Stealth Kodiak|A variant]] of the [[M400 Kodiak]] is equipped with active camouflage systems.{{Ref/Game|Id=StealthKodiak|HW2|Detail=[[Stealth Kodiak]] [[Blitz]] in-game unit}} As of [[2560]], at least one variant of the [[M15 Razorback]] undergoing field trials with the UNSC features an electronic warfare suite.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P135|Enc22|Page=135}} The [[EV-44 Nightingale]] sports basic forms of electronic warfare capabilities with its multi-spectrum smokescreen launchers and disposable jammers capable of concealing ground forces within a targeted area.{{Ref/Site|Id=CFArt|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/the-art-of-war-s|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - The Art of War(s)|D=18|M=06|Y=2021}}

The UNSC utilizes several infantry-portable pieces of electronic warfare technology. One such device is known as a "[[spoofer]]," which can be placed on an otherwise inoperable piece of technology—such as a locked or damaged [[door]]—to override it using an electrical current.{{Ref/Novel|Id=TF173|TF|Page=173}} [[Office of Naval Intelligence]] infiltration teams have also been known to utilize the [[Shroud Screen]], a small device which projects a [[Holography|holographic]] sphere capable of disrupting electro-optical sensors and [[motion tracker]]s.{{Ref/Twitter|Id=Database|Halo|1636789506778058752|Halo|Quote=SHROUD SCREEN - Developed primarily for use by ONI infiltration teams, the Shroud Screen create a localized field that disrupts electro-optical sensors and motion trackers.|D=6|M=1|Y=2024}} Another example of portable electronic warfare technology is the [[armor restraint]], a puck-shaped device that can be attached to the surface of [[MJOLNIR Powered Assault Armor]] to short-circuit the [[Powered exoskeleton|exoskeleton]] and render the wearer immobile.{{Ref/Level|Id=Glassed|H5G|Glassed}} The UNSC has also fielded an [[energy shielding]] technology for MJOLNIR armor known as [[armor lock]], which temporarily immobilizes user while overcharging their armor shielding. Upon deactivation of armor lock, the technology emits an electromagnetic pulse.{{Ref/Game|Id=HRmanual|HR|Detail=Game manual - Ordnance}} Another MJOLNIR-compatible electronic warfare technology is the [[Type-27 hologram|Type-27 Responsive Holographic Form Emulator]], a piece of revere-engineered Covenant technology that allows the user to create a [[Holography|holographic]] copy of themselves and command it to move to a certain location to deceive enemy personnel and sensors.{{Ref/Book|Id=H4VGHolo|H4EVG|Page=139}}{{Ref/Site|Id=h4site|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/halo4#!halo-evolved/gameplay/31afe32b-0e07-45c0-9424-3adc6e1eadca|Site=Halo 4 Official Site|Section=Gameplay}} The [[Semi-Powered Infiltration armor]] commonly worn by [[SPARTAN-III program|Spartan-III]]s during the Human-Covenant War incorporates photoreactive panels on its outmost surface that can hide the wearer from sight in a manner similar to—though less advanced than—the Covenant's active camouflage systems.{{Ref/Novel|Id=GoO99|GoO|Page=99}} Another common electronic warfare technology commonly incorporated into UNSC armor is data management system called [[Visual Intelligence System, Reconnaissance]], or VISR. Many variants of VISR exist,{{Ref/Reuse|H4VGHolo}} with some being able to identify enemies even when they are cloaked by active camouflage.{{Ref/Film|Id=motioncomic|EvoMC|Detail=[[Headhunters (story)|Headhunters]] motion comic}} The [[Threat Sensor]] is another piece of electronic warfare device with the intended use of revealing hidden enemies. When fired from its handheld launcher, the device emits sensor pulses that are even capable of identifying targets utilizing active camouflage, relaying this information back to friendly MJOLNIR wearers.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/inside-infinite-july-2021|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Inside Infinite - July 2021|D=23|M=7|Y=2021}}{{Ref/Level|Id=The Tower|HINF|The Tower}}

[[File:NobleSix BansheeStun.jpg|thumb|left|250px|[[SPARTAN-B312]] utilizes an M319 grenade launcher's EMP functionality to disable an {{Pattern|Is'belox|Banshee}}.]]
As with in the realm of naval combat, the UNSC utilizes several munitions with electronic warfare capabilities in terrestrial combat. These include the [[XGBU-302 bomb]], capable of emitting a localized electromagnetic pulse and commonly deployed using the [[Maastricht/Raleigh Ordnance Delivery-Application System]] aboard the [[B-65 Shortsword]].{{Ref/Book|Id=EVG176|EVG|Page=176}} [[Sergeant]] [[John Forge]] notably modified his [[John Forge's Warthog|personal Warthog]] to fire "[[25x130mm#Anvil round|Anvil round]]s," specialized munitions that explode with an electromagnetic pulse.{{Ref/Game|Id=PLForgeHog|HW2|Detail=[[Phoenix Logs]] -Forge's Warthog}} The [[M3063 deployable turret]] is an automated turret that includes an electromagnetic pulse weapon to supplement its [[Machine gun|heavy machine gun]].{{Ref/Game|H4|Autoturret in-game unit}} The UNSC fields several examples of munitions fired by handheld weapons capable of emitting electromagnetic pulses, including the XM20 EMP grenade of the [[M319 grenade launcher]] and [[M460 automatic grenade launcher]],{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P178|Enc22|Page=178}} as well as the EMP variant of the [[9X-G Gyroc rocket]] fired by the [[Echidna]] [[MLRS-1 Hydra]].{{Ref/Site|Id=universeHyrda|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/hydra-launcher|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Hydra Launcher|D=01|M=01|Y=2024}} At least two variants of EMP hand grenade are in service with the UNSC: the [[scramble grenade]]{{Ref/Novel|Id=HLL172GP|HLL|Page=172|Detail=Google Play edition}} and the [[stun grenade]].{{Ref/Game|Id=HSSGameplay|HSS|Detail=Gameplay}}

[[Squad]]s of [[Orbital Drop Shock Troopers]] have been known to incorporate electronic warfare specialists as part of their team composition.{{Ref/Game|Id=PLQuinn|HW2|Phoenix Logs|Detail=Warrant Officer Quinn}} Militaries such as the [[Militia of Mesra]] maintained dedicated electronic warfare squads within their [[battalion]]s.{{Ref/Novel|Id=HO2|Oblv|Chapter=2}} As another form of dedicated electronic warfare personnel, human factions regularly make use of [[Smart AI|volitional]] and [[Dumb AI|nonvolitional]] [[artificial intelligence]]s, which by default function as electronic warfare technology due to their digital nature. Some AI, such as [[Cortana]], are created with electronic warfare specifically in mind, possessing greater than average intrusion and code-breaking capabilities.{{Ref/Novel|Id=HTFOR25|HTFoR|Chapter=25}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=HTFOR27|HTFoR|Chapter=27}}

===Covenant usage===
[[File:Stealth pylon.jpg|thumb|right|300px|An active Covenant stealth pylon at [[Szurdok Ridge]], [[Reach]].]]
While engaged in terrestrial combat, the Covenant and its remnants have been observed utilizing several forms of electronic warfare technology. The [[Covenant communications jammer|communications jammer]] is one such technology, placed onto the battlefield to disrupt enemy [[COM]] frequencies, preventing long-ranged communications in the region.{{Ref/Level|Id=HRNA|HR|New Alexandria}} During planetary invasions, the Covenant may use [[stealth pylon]]s to hide their forces from long-range sensors.{{Ref/Level|Id=HR|HR|Nightfall}} Some Covenant atmospheric craft have been known to utilize active camouflage technology for stealth missions. These include the {{Pattern|Ru'swum|Phantom}} and the [[Klavbrig Workshop Shroud]]. While the former is only capable of cloaking itself,{{Ref/Level|Id=H3Covenant|H3|The Covenant (level)}} the latter can generate a localized cloaking field to hide nearby troops, vehicles, and other ordnance.{{Ref/Game|Id=PLShroud|HW2|Phoenix Logs|Detail=Shroud}} The {{Pattern|Bkowe'nei|Vampire}} features a [[stasis cannon]], which functions as an electromagnetic pulse weapon. When targeted by a Vampire's stasis canon, the drive systems of enemy aircraft often fail, resulting in a deadly free fall.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P289|Enc22|Page=289}}

In the Covenant military, a "[[point]]" is a small grouping of specialists not under the command of an [[obedientiary]], tasked with electronic warfare, reconnaissance, or communications proxies.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P239|Enc22|Page=239}} Several ranks of soldiers and roles within the Covenant and its remnants are known to utilize personal active camouflage systems. These include [[Arbiter]]s,{{Ref/Reuse|H2Arbiter}} [[Special Operations Officer]]s,{{Ref/Level|Id=H2Arbiter|H2|The Arbiter}} [[Special Operations Unggoy]],{{Ref/Reuse|H2Arbiter}} [[Stealth Sangheili]],{{Ref/Level|Id=H2Cairo|H2|Cairo Station}} [[Sangheili Zealot]]s,{{Ref/Level|Id=TipOfTheSpear|HR|Tip of the Spear}} [[Silent Shadow]],{{Ref/Reuse|motioncomic}} and [[Jiralhanae Stalker]]s,{{Ref/Game|H3ODST|ODST}} among others. One specific active camouflage device used by the Covenant was the [[Type-3 active camouflage]].{{Ref/Site|Id=AvCam|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/active-camouflage|Site=Halo Waypoint|Section=Universe|Page=Active Camouflage}} The personal active camouflage technologies utilized by the Covenant greatly reduce the visibility of the wearer while active by bending light around them, rendering the wearer's silhouette transparent.{{Ref/Book|Id=h4evgp136|H4EVG|Page=136}} Another feature incorporated into some Covenant infantry armor is the [[Type-27 hologram|Type-27 Responsive Holographic Form Emulator]]. Utilized most commonly by [[Skirmisher]] [[Skirmisher Champion|Champion]]s and [[Skirmisher Commando|Commando]]s,{{Ref/Game|Id=Champion|HR|[[Skirmisher Champion]] in-game unit}}{{Ref/Game|Id=Commando|HR|[[Skirmisher Commando]] in-game unit}} this technology user to create a [[Holography|holographic]] copy of themselves and then command it to move to a certain location to deceive enemy personnel and sensors.{{Ref/Reuse|H4VGHolo}}{{Ref/Reuse|h4site}}

[[File:HEvol - Elite SpecOps Sword.png|thumb|left|300px|Two Silent Shadow Sangheili utilizing active camouflage in combat.]]
The Covenant has fielded a variety of handheld weapons and devices with electronic warfare uses. Perhaps the most prolific of these are the various models of [[plasma pistol]], which generally feature an alternative firing mode that fires a single overcharged burst of [[plasma]] with EMP properties capable of disabling energy shielding and armored vehicles.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P291|Enc22|Page=291}} Some {{Pattern|Anskum|plasma grenade}}s have be seen to emit an electromagnetic pulse when detonated as well.{{Ref/Novel|Id=HFS89|HFS|Page=89}} During the final weeks of the Human-Covenant War, [[Jiralhanae]] forces loyal to the [[Prophet of Truth]] utilized several hand-deployed pieces of electronic warfare [[equipment]] including the [[power drain]] and [[radar jammer]]. The former emits a localized EMP when active, disabling nearby energy shields and vehicles while the latter is designed to trick enemy [[motion tracker]]s by emitting false-positive radio waves.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc09P343|Enc09|Page=343}} In a manner similar to the UNSC's armor restraint, the Covenant has fielded a "[[shock device]]" capable of rendering MJOLNIR armor immobile via a powerful energy pulse.{{Ref/Comic|Id=HE11|HE|Issue=11}} The Covenant has also been known to weaponize [[stasis field]]s. During his tenure as Arbiter, [[Ripa 'Moramee]] was granted unrestricted access to experimental stasis weaponry such as [[stasis mine]]s.{{Ref/Game|Id=PLRipa|HW2|Phoenix Logs|Detail=Ripa 'Moramee}} In addition to utilizing cloaking technology, these mines utilize energy fields that envelope enemy forces when triggered, stunning and immobilizing them.{{Ref/Game|HW2|[[Ripa 'Moramee|The Arbiter]] - [[Leader]] power|Detail=Stasis Mine|Quote=Activate to deploy mines that stun and immobilize enemy units.}}

In contrast to humanity's regular use of artificial intelligences in cyberwarfare and intrusion roles, the Covenant considered AIs to be dangerous and vile heresies,{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P217|Enc22|Page=217}} citing [[Mendicant Bias|a particular AI]]'s betrayal of the Forerunners.{{Ref/Novel|Id=ch188|CH|Page=188}} However, due to their systems' vulnerabilities to incursion by human AIs, the Covenant unvaulted counter-intrusion constructs such as the "[[Seeker (AI)|Seeker]]" in an attempt to combat this issue. Created in ages long past, these constructs are much less sophisticated than their human-made counterparts. On one occasion, the Covenant managed to capture [[Ascendant Justice's AI|a human AI]] and attempted to isolate and convert the machine. This only resulted in a hostile, enslaved mind that managed to escape, replicating itself across many Covenant facilities and vessels.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P217}}

===Banished usage===
[[File:HW2 Blitz Prowling Reaver.png|thumb|right|250px|A Prowling Reaver activating its active camouflage.]]
With much of their hardware sourced from the defunct interstellar empire, the Banished share many of their terrestrial electronic warfare technologies with the Covenant. When establishing [[Banished outpost|outpost]]s on a battlefield, the Banished utilize multiple types of structures specializing in electronic warfare. These include [[Sensor Tower|sensor tower]]s, structures that can detect nearby forces that would otherwise be hidden by active camouflage.{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P443|Enc22|Page=443}}{{Ref/Game|Id=PLSensorTower|HW2|Phoenix Logs|Detail=Sensor Tower}} Also included in this list are the [[cloaking generator]]s, devices reverse-engineered from Covenant stealth pylons and capable of concealing entire Banished outposts from view.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc22P443}}{{Ref/Game|Id=PLCloakingGen|HW2|Phoenix Logs|Detail=Cloaking Generator}} On one [[Battle of Netherop (2559)|occasion]], a cloaking generator was used to hide [[Hammer of Fate|a drekar]] and four [[karve]]s on the surface of one of [[Netherop]]'s [[Natural satellite|moon]]s.{{Ref/Reuse|Out6}} The Banished have been known to deploy [[disruption emitter]]s in combat, devices similar in use to the UNSC's XGBU-302 bomb that emit an electromagnetic pulse to disable nearby electronics.{{Ref/Level|HW2|What Could Go Wrong?}}

Like the Covenant before it, the Banished utilize several vehicles that incorporate electronic warfare technologies. The Banished procured a number of Klavbrig Workshop Shrouds from the Covenant's stores, often utilizing the vehicles' cloaking abilities to conceal raiding parties.{{Ref/Reuse|PLShroud}} Occasionally, the Banished has been known to upgrade existing vehicles with personal cloaking generators, such as with the [[Prowling Marauder|"prowling"]] [[Prowling Reaver|variants]] of the [[Eklon'Dal Workshop Marauder]] and [[Dovotaa Workshop Reaver]].{{Ref/Game|Id=HW2Prowling|HW2|Detail=[[Prowling Marauder]] and [[Prowling Reaver]] in-game units}}

The Banished field infantry units with personal active camouflage on a scale similar to that of the Covenant, remaining a technology that is primarily utilized by Sangheili. Banished Special Operations Sangheili, [[Sangheili Warlord]]s, [[Evocati|Sangheili Ultra]]s,{{Ref/Game|Id=HIgame|HINF|Detail=Campaign gameplay}} [[Honor Guard]] Sangheili,{{Ref/Game|Id=HonorGuard|HW2|Detail=[[Honor Guard]] in-game unit}} and [[Unggoy Prowling|certain]] Unggoy are outfitted with personal active camouflage.{{Ref/Game|Id=ProwlUnggoy|HW2|Detail=[[Unggoy Prowling]] in-game unit}} Several Silent Shadow Sangheili—such as [[Inslaan 'Gadogai]] and [[Jega 'Rdomnai]]—are known to have joined the Banished as well,{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc2P459|Enc22|Page=459}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc2P454|Enc22|Page=454}} with at least the latter continuing to use active camouflage in combat.{{Ref/Level|Id=HoR|HINF|Level=House of Reckoning}} Another form of infantry-portable electronic warfare technology utilized by the Banished is the [[Threat Seeker]], a device which can reveal the position of enemies hidden from view—functionality similar to the UNSC's Threat Sensor.{{Ref/Site|Id=CFShocks|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/canon-fodder-system-shocks|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Canon Fodder - System Shocks|D=13|M=1|Y=2024}}{{Ref/Site|Id=S4Sandbox|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/sandbox-overview-season-4|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=SANDBOX OVERVIEW <nowiki>|</nowiki> SEASON 4|D=13|M=1|Y=2024}}

[[File:HINF DynoVsGhost.png|thumb|left|250px|A dynamo grenade disables a [[Riuctda Workshop Ghost]].]]
[[Voltaic weaponry]] makes up the majority of the Banished's infantry-portable electronic warfare weapons. These weapons have their origin in Jiralhanae conflicts prior to the species' induction into the Covenant and [[Atriox]] himself commissioned [[Sicatt Workshop]]'s [[Alchemy Corps]] to harness these technologies.{{Ref/Reuse|CFBloodMoon}} The [[Sicatt Workshop shock rifle]] is a directed energy [[Sniper rifle (disambiguation)|sniper rifle]] that fires a burst of electrolasers capable of disabling energy shielding and vehicles, as well as playing havoc with MJOLNIR armor systems.{{Ref/Novel|Id=SOR19|HSoR|Chapter=19}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc2P477|Enc22|Page=477}} The [[Sicatt Workshop Disruptor]] is an automatic [[pistol]] that fires bolts that attach themselves to targets and unload powerful surges of electrical current capable of incapacitating enemy infantry and disabling vehicles and equipment.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc2P477}} Finally, the [[Sicatt Workshop dynamo grenade]] is a voltaic grenade that unleashes waves of electricity into targets within its radius of effect, immobilizing infantry and disabling electronics such as energy shields and vehicles,{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P483|Enc22|Page=483}} much like the power drain utilized by Covenant Jiralhanae.{{Ref/Reuse|Enc09P343}} Additionally, several variants of Banished [[plasma mine]]s utilize cloaking technology to avoid detection by enemy forces.{{Ref/Game|HW2|Id=plasmamine|[[Atriox]] - [[Leader]] power|Detail=Plasma Mines|Quote=Activate to drop a line of cloaked mines. Once armed, mines explode on contact. Does not damage air units.}}{{Ref/Game|HW2|[[Let 'Volir|Shipmaster]] - Leader power|Detail=Scout Mine|Quote=Activate to drop a cloaked Scout Mine. Explodes on contact, also provides vision within a small area.}}

While the Banished is not known to have the capability to produce artificial intelligences, at least one volitional AI by the name of [[Iratus]] came into their possession. Created by the human technology firm [[Lux Voluspa]] using a Jiralhanae brain as part of research into the concept of non-human donors for volitional AI, the Banished managed to steal Iratus via a cyberwarfare attack.{{Ref/Site|Id=S2StoryHub|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/halo-infinite|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Halo Infinite|D=06|M=05|Y=2022|LocalArchive=Halo Infinite Story & Intel|Detail=Defunct page; available on linked archive only}}{{Ref/Generic|Id=LuxVoluspa|[[Halo Infinite Lux Voluspa]]}} Assigned to managed the Banished's shipbreaking operations on [[Camber]],{{Ref/Twitter|Id=IratusFF|Halo|1646899697448017922|Halo|Quote=Uniquely created using a Jiralhanae brain donor, Iratus oversaw Banished shipbreaking operations on Camber where Spartan Dinh would trap the AI in his neural interface while Spartan Eklund hijacked a Phantom to escape to the Avery J. Johnson Academy.|D=12|M=1|Y=2024}} Iratus was ultimately stolen again, this time by [[SPARTAN-IV program|Spartan]]s [[Hieu Dinh]] and [[Sigrid Eklund]]. Dinh was forced to insert Iratus into his [[neural interface]] and the Spartans took the AI to the [[Avery J. Johnson Academy of Military Science]].{{Ref/Reuse|S2StoryHub}} Iratus attempted to break Dinh by forcing him to relive painful memories of his past,{{Ref/Game|Id=EM|HI|Mindfall|Detail=Enemy Mind cinematic}} but the AI was ultimately removed from Dinh's interface and quarantined.{{Ref/Game|id=HIInter|HI|Interference}} However, he would break containment and begin to infect the armor and neural interfaces of the academy's trainees.{{Ref/Site|Id=S4Intel|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/infection-intel|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Halo Infinite - Infection Intel|D=29|M=06|Y=2023|LocalArchive=Halo Infinite Story & Intel}}

===Forerunner usage===
The Forerunners developed several advanced forms of electronic warfare technology for use in terrestrial combat. Perhaps most notably, the Forerunners commonly utilized [[baffler]]s and [[dazzler]]s to camouflage objects and areas that they wanted to remain hidden.{{Ref/Site|Id=CryptumGlossary|URL=http://halo.xbox.com/en-us/intel/related/text/cryptum-glossary/62e29c59-a3f9-4b63-af76-def71fda5459|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Cryptum Glossary|D=14|M=03|Y=2014|LocalArchive=Halo: Cryptum/Glossary}} The former technology utilizes geometric distortions for camouflage,{{Ref/Reuse|CryptumGlossary}} while the latter technology causes visual and auditory delusions for those within range of the device.{{Ref/Reuse|CryptumGlossary}}{{Ref/Novel|Id=Cry41|Cry|Page=41}}

[[File:HTMCC-H4 ThisTombIsNowYours.png|thumb|left|300px|The Ur-Didact holds [[John-117]] within a constraint field.]]
Several pieces of infantry-portable equipment and weaponry utilized by the Forerunners are known to incorporate electronic warfare functionality. The [[Z-5080 Promethean vision]] system allows the user to detect shapes and movement through solid barriers, even being capable identifying between friend and foe.{{Ref/Reuse|h4site}}{{Ref/Book|Id=H4EVG|H4EVG|Page=138}} The [[Z-400 splinter grenade]] features the ability to create an ionized lattice cloud that can disable vehicles in a manner similar to that of an EMP.{{Ref/Site|Id=WaypointSplinter|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/universe/weapons/splinter-grenade|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Splinter Grenade|D=13|M=04|Y=2016}}{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P395|Enc22|Page=395}} The Forerunners also utilized [[constraint field]]s to restrain individuals.{{Ref/Novel|Id=cryptum|Cry|Page=303-305}} [[Warrior-Servant]]s such as the [[Ur-Didact]] could manipulate these energy fields in a manner akin to [[Wikipedia:Telekinesis|telekinesis]].{{Ref/Level|Id=H4Forerunner|H4|Forerunner (level)}}

[[File:Enc22 MendicantBias.jpg|thumb|right|185px|A Contender-class ancilla, the most advanced form of Metarch.]]
The Forerunner utilized artificial intelligences—called [[ancilla]]—on a scale far surpassing humanity. Ancilla were a standard component of Forerunner [[Forerunner personal armor|personal armor]], interfacing directly with the wearer's mind. The ancilla stored and collated information recorded by the armor and the wearer's own sensory data, allowing both to be accessed later.{{Ref/Novel|Id=SilP41|Sil|Page=41}} In addition to their own stores of knowledge, a personal ancilla could connect to a network—such as that of a starship—and provide information for the wearer at will.{{Ref/Novel|Id=Cry107|Cry|Page=107}} However, the Forerunners' use of ancilla did not stop there. Across their [[ecumene]], trillions of sapient ancilla maintained innumerable aspects of Forerunner society. With few exceptions, every Forerunner was accompanied by a personal ancilla throughout their life. These ancilla served as advisors, teachers, recorders, and mediators to all Forerunner Information systems and the [[Domain]].{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P325|Enc22|Page=325}} The most notable classes of ancilla are [[monitor]]s: administrators, assistants, guards, and caretakers created to govern large facilities and oversee their processes,{{Ref/Book|Id=Enc22P371|Enc22|Page=371}} and [[Metarch-class ancilla|Metarch]]: hyper-advanced ancilla created to serve the [[Ecumene Council]], with the purpose of managing large swaths of the ecumene's operations.{{Ref/Site|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/news/the-new-halo-encyclopedia-is-out-today|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=The New Halo Encyclopedia is Out Today|D=11|M=03|Y=2023}} Some Metarchs have even been tasked with coordinating entire war efforts.{{Ref/Novel|Id=p190|Pri|Page=190-192}}

The Forerunners also developed a technology for countering ancillas known as an [[AI suppressor]]. These devices were designed to deactivate [[ancilla]]s, capable of debriefing and transferring all the targeted ancilla's data.{{Ref/Novel|Id=Cry194|Cry|Page=194}} The suppressors could also be used to subsume the ancilla within a Forerunner's personal armor or to [[Physical restraints|physically restrain]] an individual, preventing their armor from healing them,{{Ref/Novel|Id=Cry204|Cry|Page=204}} or forcing the wearer into unconsciousness.{{Ref/Novel|Id=Cry208|Cry|Page=208}}

==Production notes==
During the development of ''[[Halo Wars 2]]'', UNSC and Banished units labeled "[[E-War units|E-War]]" were planned for the game, but they were ultimately [[Cut Halo Wars 2 units|cut]].{{Ref/Site|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://www.halowaypoint.com/en-us/news/burn-baby-burn|Site=Halo Waypoint|Page=Burn Baby Burn}} These were intended to work as electronic warfare specialists and/or an infiltrator-type unit.{{Ref/Site|D=01|M=6|Y=2020|URL=https://twitter.com/GrimBrotherOne/status/843357599042945024|Site=Twitter|Page=Jeff Easterling|Quote=Q: Some kind of Electronic Warfare Operator/Infiltrator?<br/> A: Yeah that was pretty much the original intention.}}

==Sources==
{{Ref/Sources}}

[[Category:Military tactics]]
[[Category:Electronic warfare technology]]