The topic of scattering and propagation in random media is one that has implications for the design, development and operation of most military systems that radiate energy as a means of accomplishing their funtion. Primary emphasis is on scattering and transmission in the atmosphere; however, other related random medium effects are not excluded. Modern methods of characterizing random media, mathematical methods and their applicability, effects on electromagnetic waves and the interpretation of these effects to specific system applications are described. The region of the spectrum considered is essentially unlimited and ranges from very long waves to optics. The performance of existing surveillance communication and navigation systems as well as the design of future systems is influenced by the propagation of energy via random media. An understanding of the nature of the medium and its impact on system design and performance is essential to the NATO community.