According to Chinese researchers, they have developed a high-power microwave (HPM) weapon that can produce electromagnetic energy equivalent to a nuclear explosion. This compact and powerful technology has the potential to change the game in modern warfare, offering a strategic game changer in anti-drone and anti-satellite operations.
It is still in development and has not been field tested. But it is invaluable for military applications because of its ability to destroy electronic components. The U.S. is racing other nations to develop similar weapons. According to reports, the U.S. is considering deploying HPMs in the Indo-Pacific region to disable Chinese satellites in the event of a conflict. The Chinese model is different from conventional HPMs that rely on satellite dish-type antennas, using phased array transmission technology. Precise energy focusing is enabled, extending the weapon’s range and allowing simultaneous targeting of multiple assets.

Phased array technology has historically been plagued by stability issues. But Chinese researchers say they have overcome these obstacles, and the HPM can produce microwaves with a power of up to 1 gigawatt (GW). Scientists at the National University of Defense Technology in Changsha and the Northwest Institute of Nuclear Technology in Xian have reportedly developed a unique power divider to stabilize electromagnetic waves. The device is roughly the size of a pedestal fan and channels energy into eight independent streams, with an operating efficiency of 96.6%. The HPM produces Ku-band electromagnetic pulses, the same frequency range as communication satellites such as Starlink.
This technology is seen by Chinese military experts as a key weapon against satellites in low Earth orbit. HPMs in the gigawatt level could disrupt satellites that rely on commercial-grade electronics that may not have military standard reinforcements. The strategic importance of such capabilities is evidenced by Starlink’s use in conflicts such as the Russia-Ukraine war. If it works, China’s advanced HPM weapon could give its anti-satellite arsenal a major boost, changing the balance of global military power.