Which operational measure is characterized by signal intelligence?

The characterization of operational measures by signal intelligence falls under operational security. This involves the protection of sensitive information from being exploited by adversaries, and part of this process includes the continuous monitoring of communications and signals. Signal intelligence, or SIGINT, pertains to the interception and analysis of communication signals, both voice and non-voice, from various sources such as telephone calls, emails, and radio transmissions.

Operational security relies heavily on signal intelligence to assess potential threats and vulnerabilities, allowing for informed decisions to maintain the security of operations. This protective measure is crucial in maintaining an operational advantage and safeguarding mission-critical information against enemy detection and analysis.

In contrast, other operational measures like humanitarian operations, counter-insurgency operations, and combat operations do not prioritize or primarily rely on signal intelligence in the same fundamental way as operational security does. These other types focus more on direct engagement with populations or adversaries rather than the nuanced intelligence that helps secure operational environments from unwanted surveillance and information leaks.