Accession Number:

AD1018555

Title:

High Power Microwaves on the Future Battlefield: Implications for U.S. Defense

Descriptive Note:

Technical Report

Corporate Author:

Air War College Air University Maxwell AFB United States

Personal Author(s):

• Capozzella,Robert J.

Report Date:

2010-02-17

Pagination or Media Count:

37.0

Abstract:

One of the U.S. Militarys greatest strengths, integration of technology, may soon turn into its greatest liability as recent advances in the area of high power microwave HPM weapons are garnering interest around the world. Current U.S. military strategy is to develop and maintain its superiority through the leveraging of information technology, but as recent conflicts have shown, potential enemies are likely to attack asymmetrically. HPMs against electronics is an asymmetric avenue to negate the technological advantage of the U.S. Therefore, nations, groups, andor individuals will likely seek to use HPM weapons against the U.S. This paper argues that the U.S. should continue to research and develop HPM weapon systems that target electronics, discern how an enemy may use them against us, develop countermeasures, and deter HPM offensive uses, particularly those that can have catastrophic results.

Descriptors:

• microwaves
• electronic equipment
• frequency bands
• air traffic control systems
• power converters
• electrical grids
• weapons effects
• military modernization
• military capabilities
• military strategy
• vulnerability
• attack

Subject Categories:

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE