Defence has introduced Jemstone – a new Australian-designed-and-built electromagnetic battle management system.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) depends on the electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) for communications, situational awareness and weapon systems. 

But as EMS becomes more crowded and contested, it creates challenges for Defence operations.

To tackle this, Jemstone makes managing the spectrum faster and easier, cutting planning time from hours to minutes and improving coordination across operations.

The system helps commanders plan, simulate and monitor EMS activity with greater accuracy. 

For example, it can detect potential interference – such as an air defence radar affecting a naval system – so adjustments can be made before missions begin. It also identifies unused frequencies, giving commanders more options during operations.

Currently operational at Joint Operations Command, it marks a major advance in Defence’s spectrum management capabilities.

Jemstone’s software and architecture is owned by the Commonwealth, with Defence maintaining control over future upgrades and security.

Flight Lieutenant Sam Jolley, an end-user representative, said one person could now do in a few days what used to take a whole team several weeks.

“It’s a big leap forward for how we manage the spectrum and support operations,” Flight Lieutenant Jolley said. 

The project was delivered using agile software development practices, with sovereign industry provider Consunet working with Defence delivery and users.