In terms of Electronic Warfare, what does the term 'Active' typically refer to?

The term 'Active' in Electronic Warfare specifically refers to engaging enemy signals to disrupt their operations. This involves techniques where a system actively emits signals to interfere with or deny the enemy's use of the electromagnetic spectrum. Active measures can include jamming communications, radar systems, and other electronic devices that disrupt the enemy's ability to coordinate and respond effectively.

In contrast, monitoring enemy communications without interference would be a passive approach, where no signals are emitted, and thus does not qualify as active engagement. Defensive maneuvers to protect against threats typically focus on using countermeasures or tactics to safeguard one's own systems rather than directly disrupting enemy operations. Lastly, using passive sensors to gather intelligence is also a non-intrusive method, gathering information without actively engaging or affecting enemy signals.