US and Japan to jointly develop high-power microwave weapons for drone defense

Asia-Pacific, News, US July 19, 2024 , by IRIA No Comments

The United States and Japan are planning an agreement to jointly develop high-powered microwave weapons aimed at defending against the growing threat of hostile drones. As tensions rise in the Indo-Pacific region, this collaborative effort underscores the pressing need for advanced defense technologies.

The defense technology and acquisition agencies of both nations are in the process of finalizing an agreement that could span up to three years of intensive research and development. This joint venture will focus on the effective application of microwave weapons to counteract drone threats.

Microwave weapons are engineered to emit high-powered, short bursts of electromagnetic waves, which can disrupt or destroy a drone’s electrical systems.

The U.S. Air Force has already demonstrated the potential of such technology with its Tactical High-Power Operational Responder (THOR). In a 2023 trial, THOR successfully neutralized a swarm of drones, highlighting the feasibility and effectiveness of this defense approach.

*^{U.S. Air Force Research lab tests Tactical High-Power Operational Responder (THOR) counter-unmanned aerial system. (Image Credit: AFRL/U.S. Air Force)}*

Increasing threat of drone attacks

The decision to develop counter-drone weapons is heavily influenced by current global conflicts. The Russia-Ukraine war has prominently featured the use of drones, prompting nations worldwide to prioritize the development of unmanned platforms for military use. The ability of relatively inexpensive drones to inflict significant damage on high-value targets has underscored the need for cost-effective countermeasures.

Additionally, persistent drone attacks on U.S. military bases in the Middle East have further emphasized the necessity for improved and more economical counter-drone solutions. In April 2024, Pentagon Undersecretary for Acquisition William LaPlante noted that current efforts to neutralize hostile drones are exceedingly costly, often exceeding $100,000 per shot.

The backdrop to this collaboration is the increasing geopolitical tension in the Indo-Pacific, particularly concerning China’s assertive stance in the South China Sea and its growing military capabilities. The U.S. and Japan, both key players in the region, recognize the strategic importance of enhancing their defense technologies to maintain stability and deter potential threats.

Recent developments have seen a surge in military exercises and strategic partnerships among Indo-Pacific nations. The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), comprising the U.S., Japan, India, and Australia, has been particularly active, conducting joint military exercises and coordinating on security issues. The collaboration on microwave weapons can be seen as a part of this broader strategy to enhance regional security.

*^{The artist’s rendition of a Stryker vehicle with a mounted HEL system shoots down unmanned aircraft systems. (Image Credit: KBR)}*

Moreover, the proliferation of drones in military conflicts worldwide has accelerated research and development in counter-drone technologies. Countries like Israel, known for its Iron Dome defense system, and NATO members have been actively developing and deploying various counter-drone measures, ranging from electronic jamming to kinetic interceptors.

While details about the specific technologies and methodologies to be employed in the U.S.-Japan joint venture remain limited, military analysts suggest that the project will prioritize reducing the energy consumption of microwave weapons and making them portable and cost-effective. Achieving these goals would represent a significant advancement in counter-drone capabilities, potentially setting a new standard for military defense systems.

The collaboration also signals a deepening of the U.S.-Japan security alliance, which has been a cornerstone of regional stability for decades. As both nations continue to innovate and adapt to emerging threats, their combined efforts in developing advanced defense technologies like microwave weapons will likely play a crucial role in maintaining peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.