The US Navy has announced it is developing a prototype weapon based on high-power microwaves. It plans to use this system on Navy ships by early 2026 and is part of its strategy to develop energy-directed weapon systems.
Microwave technology was first used in World War II for radar devices and later in consumer products such as microwave ovens. The goal in developing a weapon system with a powerful microwave transmitter is to counter aerial threats, primarily unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Energy-directed weapons are developed by combining laser and microwave technologies to create complementary defense systems. While lasers focus on damaging rocket shells or missiles, by targeting specific sensitive areas, microwave-based weapons strike and cause irreversible damage to the electronic components of the target. This mechanism is effective against UAVs and drones, precision ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and even hypersonic cruise missiles.
Compared to the laser beam, microwave weapons have significant operational advantages. They are cost-effective, simple weapons, with a wide operational range, and can quickly strike multiple targets. The microwave beam moves at the speed of light, but unlike the laser beam, it is wide and diffused, allowing it to hit numerous targets. The beam is not affected by environmental conditions and can be operated at long ranges. With sufficient power, it can cause damage critical components of the target. This technology presents a promising solution to protect vessels against unmanned aircraft and ballistic missiles in the near future.
The US Navy has announced it is developing a prototype weapon based on high-power microwaves. It plans to use this system on Navy ships by early 2026 and is part of its strategy to develop energy-directed weapon systems.
Microwave technology was first used in World War II for radar devices and later in consumer products such as microwave ovens. The goal in developing a weapon system with a powerful microwave transmitter is to counter aerial threats, primarily unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Energy-directed weapons are developed by combining laser and microwave technologies to create complementary defense systems. While lasers focus on damaging rocket shells or missiles, by targeting specific sensitive areas, microwave-based weapons strike and cause irreversible damage to the electronic components of the target. This mechanism is effective against UAVs and drones, precision ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and even hypersonic cruise missiles.
Compared to the laser beam, microwave weapons have significant operational advantages. They are cost-effective, simple weapons, with a wide operational range, and can quickly strike multiple targets. The microwave beam moves at the speed of light, but unlike the laser beam, it is wide and diffused, allowing it to hit numerous targets. The beam is not affected by environmental conditions and can be operated at long ranges. With sufficient power, it can cause damage critical components of the target. This technology presents a promising solution to protect vessels against unmanned aircraft and ballistic missiles in the near future.