How does communications intelligence differ from electronics intelligence?

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military intelligence U.S. Defense Intelligence Agency headquarters, Washington, D.C.

Communications intelligence (COMINT) and electronics intelligence (ELINT) are both distinct components of signals intelligence, but they differ in the nature of the information they target.1

Communications Intelligence (COMINT): This involves intercepting and analyzing foreign communications intended for specific recipients. By accessing these messages, military forces can gain critical insights into an adversary's strategies, attitudes, and vulnerabilities, as demonstrated by the U.S. Navy’s decryption of Japanese codes during World War II.1
Electronics Intelligence (ELINT): This focuses on technical data derived from electromagnetic emissions that are not part of communications equipment, nuclear detonations, or radioactive sources. Analysts use these signals to determine the purpose, capabilities, and technical characteristics of foreign weapons or electronic systems.1

In short, while COMINT provides insight into the content of human or machine-to-machine messaging, ELINT provides technical intelligence regarding the function and nature of the hardware emitting the signals.1