High-Powered Microwaves for Boost Phase Intercept

Abstract

This work details an analysis of using directed high-powered microwave systems as a defense against intercontinental ballistic missiles. High-powered microwaves are well suited for this role by adjusting the criteria for adequate missile defense from that of missile destruction to that of missile disablement via electromagnetic upset. Conclusions, however, are highly dependent on key assumptions about a target\u27s electromagnetic vulnerability; further research is necessary to quantify a ballistic missile\u27s actual in-flight response to an applied high-powered microwave