China Discloses Research on High-Power Microwave Weapons With Outputs up to 100 Gigawatts
Despite media claims, the July 2026 does not describe any testing, integration, or deployment of a complete high-power microwave weapon system against orbital targets.
BEIJING — Researchers from the National University of Defense Technology published a paper on July 9 detailing pulsed-power systems for high-power microwave weapons capable of reaching 100 gigawatts of output through combined modules.
Details of the paper were noted on July 9. Russian state-affiliated media amplified the disclosure hours later with claims framing the technology as a potential counter to Starlink satellite networks, drones, and communications systems at extremely low cost per strike and described the tech as battlefield-ready.
The paper, published in the journal High Power Laser and Particle Beams, describes advancements in pulsed-power drivers that have moved from laboratory prototypes to practical applications.
It states that some gigawatt-class systems have already been delivered to users. Earlier February reporting on the 20-gigawatt compact driver described similar concepts for ground-based systems that could disrupt or damage satellite electronics without creating orbital debris.
Feasibility of Using High-Power Microwave Systems Against Satellites
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