High Power Radio Frequency Weapons

The emergent technology of high power radio frequency in a directed energy role has huge potential for military use, in both offensive and defensive roles. There are many applications for this type of technology, from minesweeping to anti-aircraft artillery to unmanned combat aerial vehicles. Given the current U.S. dominance in precision attack and air combat capability, new technologies might serve to challenge this advantage if an enemy can exploit them. This paper examines the question of whether U.S. tactics or strategy will have to change with these systems in the hands of an adversary, assuming they were used in an integrated air defense role to counter U.S. high-tech deep-strike capability. Specifically, could high power microwave systems become an effective defense against our standoff cruise missile and stealth technology and if so, could an adversary develop and deploy them without our knowledge in order to catch us unaware? Based on the findings, the conclusion recommends several avenues that the Air Force should pursue to prepare for these future weapons.