China high-power microwave weapon: China has claimed development of a new kind of weapon which is being described as highly effective even without traditional ammunition. According to Chinese scientists, this system could be so powerful that it can also disable satellite networks present in space. This claim has drawn attention of defense experts, especially at a time when competition over space-based military technologies is increasing at the global level.
Ability to attack without explosion
The technology that China has claimed to develop is said to be based on high-power microwave (HPM). According to Chinese researchers, this system does not make a direct physical attack on the target, but affects the electronic structure and leaves it unable to function. Because of this, it is also being linked with names like invisible hunter.
It has been stated that this technology could be capable of disabling satellite networks, communication systems, and electronic equipment without any visible explosion or debris. This is why it is being seen as a potential threat to space-based networks, especially commercial communication satellites.
Concern regarding Starlink
Experts say that China’s growing activities in this direction are also connected with global communication systems. Especially, the Starlink network of Elon Musk’s company SpaceX has played an important role in both military and civilian sectors in recent years.
During the Russia-Ukraine conflict, this network was used to maintain wartime communications, which drew attention of strategic analysts worldwide toward the usefulness and weaknesses of satellite-based communication systems. Because of this, reports about China developing such systems are now being seen in the same context.
What is being claimed about the new system?
Media reports have stated that scientists at the Northwest Institute of Nuclear Technology located in Xi’an city of China have claimed to develop a small-size microwave driver, which has been named TPG1000Cs. According to people linked with the research, this system can produce thousands of very high-energy microwave pulses, which are expected to have a deep impact on electronic equipment.
If it is compared with Russia’s previously discussed Sineva-7 technology, that has been considered a heavier system and capable of operating for a shorter time. On the other hand, the Chinese model is being described as relatively lighter, and it is also being said that it can be deployed from land, sea, air, or even from space.
Why are microwave weapons considered different?
Defense experts say that microwave-based weapons are quite different from traditional weapons. In these, no explosion or direct physical attack is used to destroy the target, but electronic systems are affected through them. This is why such technologies are being considered important in possible future conflicts.
Utkarsh works as a Sub-Editor at 1Tak News. Technology and gadgets are his main beats, and he also tracks automobiles. A graduate of Mahatma Gandhi Kashi Vidyapeeth, he began his journalism career in 2023 and has built experience across digital media platforms like 1Tak. Besides technology, he also has considerable experience covering national affairs, politics, research, and international news.
