Microwave weaponry refers to the use of microwave radiation for military or non-military purposes. It involves the deployment of devices that generate and emit high-power microwaves (HPM) or electromagnetic waves in the microwave frequency range. These waves can be directed towards a target to cause various effects.
Microwave weapons can be classified into two main categories:
High-Power Microwave (HPM) Weapons: HPM weapons produce intense bursts of electromagnetic energy in the microwave range. They can disable or destroy electronic systems by generating high-energy pulses that interfere with or overload electronic circuits. HPM weapons are often designed to target a specific area, such as a building or vehicle, and can be used to disrupt or disable electronic equipment, including computers, communication systems, and radars.
Active Denial Systems (ADS): ADS, also known as "pain rays" or "microwave cannons," are non-lethal weapons designed to disperse crowds or deter individuals by causing a sensation of intense heat on the skin. These systems use millimeter waves in the microwave frequency range to penetrate the top layer of the skin, causing a non-damaging but highly uncomfortable sensation that forces individuals to move away from the source.
It's worth noting that the development and deployment of microwave weapons are subject to various legal and ethical considerations. International treaties and agreements regulate the use of certain types of weaponry, and their implementation is governed by specific rules of engagement and military protocols.