Aerospace company Boeing has successfully completed initial testing on a non-explosive missile that emits high powered microwaves to disable computer and electrical systems. The Counter-Electronics High-Power Advanced Missile Project (CHAMP) was tested at the Utah Test and Training Range by members of Boeing Phantom Works, the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory and Raytheon Ktech.
In the initial test, CHAMP was fired at a two story building built on the test range and emitted a burst of high power microwaves that knocked out rows of personal computers and electrical systems inside the building. The television cameras set up to record the test were also disabled. CHAMP hit a total of seven targets with high power microwaves over a one-hour time period.
According to Keith Coleman, CHAMP program manager for Boeing Phantom Works, the successful completion of testing “marks a new era in modern-day warfare” where the technology may be used to disable the enemy’s electronic and data systems before any troops or aircraft arrive. Boeing hopes that the project will change modern warfare by defeating electronic targets with little or no collateral damage.
For more information, visit Boeing.
Image: Boeing
