Electronic support involves acquiring tactical, time-critical intelligence data, such as the positions, movement directions, speeds, firepower, and communication content among friendly and enemy units in the war zone, through the passive use of the electromagnetic spectrum. This data is captured and analyzed, then transmitted to relevant command and control or military units through secure channels. This intelligence can play a role in making macrostrategic decisions at the headquarters or political level, as well as at the unit level in making real-time tactical choices, determining the direction and strength of an attack, and organizing the depth and layout of defense layers.

 Electronic support is generally conducted passively, without creating any electromagnetic traces, making these activities undetectable by enemy forces. Almost all countries continuously engage in this type of passive electronic intelligence activity, regardless of whether there is a war or not, to stay informed about neighbors and potential threats in advance.