China’s new microwave weapon could merge beams like the Death Star

Chinese scientists have claimed the creation of a new powerful energy weapon, reportedly capable of combining microwave beams from multiple transmitters into a single, convergent beam aimed at a target. This technology has reportedly been described as revolutionary and may open new frontiers in the field of directed energy weapons. Comparisons have also been drawn to the iconic Death Star weapon from the “Star Wars” franchise, where lasers combine to produce a destructive force. However, the weapon’s technical feasibility outside controlled environments remains questioned by experts.

Development and design of the microwave weapon

The research team’s device includes multiple vehicles, each emitting high-frequency microwave beams, according to a South China Morning Post report. These vehicles, positioned with millimeter precision, reportedly aim to combine their beams to form a sharp point of attack.

To meet this positioning requirement, advanced laser technology has been implemented on each vehicle, while China’s BeiDou satellite navigation system provides additional support with centimeter-level accuracy.

According to details shared with the publication, a member of the research team revealed that the convergent effect of the microwave beams produces energy results described as “1+1>2.” Despite the fact that this claim is contrary to established laws of physics, such a powerful convergent energy source could achieve significantly greater effects than individual microwave emitters alone.

Precision challenges in system operation

Achieving such beam precision is complex. The scientists have reportedly developed a system that ensures firing synchronization within a margin of 170 picoseconds, an accuracy comparable to the processing cycles in high-speed computers. Fiber optic connections are used to synchronize the microwave transmitters, which are controlled by a central mobile command unit.

Although this weapon has reportedly been tested in a laboratory, experts believe that practical application in real-world conditions, where factors such as dust and moisture from the environment can interfere with microwaves, could pose significant obstacles. It is said that limitations in current battery technology also hinder the system’s ability to maintain the high energy output required for effective operation over long distances.

Experts remain cautious about the weapon’s potential outside controlled environments, with technological, logistical and physical challenges likely to impact plans for field deployment.