China’s High-Power Microwave Weapons and Their Potential Impact on Satellite Systems

China’s military has developed high-power microwave (HPM) weapons capable of delivering up to 100 gigawatts of power, according to a study published in the journal High Power Laser and Particle Beams. Researchers from the National University of Defence Technology (NUDT) detailed advancements in pulsed-power technology, which has transitioned from laboratory prototypes to practical applications. The technology could threaten low Earth orbit satellite networks, including systems like Starlink, at a low cost. The paper highlights China’s rapid progress in HPM generation, emphasizing the shift from functional to high-performance systems. This disclosure marks a rare public acknowledgment of China’s military capabilities in this field. The research suggests potential vulnerabilities in satellite constellations, which could influence global defense strategies and civilian technological development.