Chinese scientists have achieved a significant milestone in directed-energy weapon technology by testing a high-power microwave gun capable of firing over 10,000 shots without performance degradation. The breakthrough is attributed to a vacuum encapsulation system that eliminates the need for external vacuum pumps, enhancing durability and miniaturization. The weapon operates at 10-30 pulses per second, emits microwave beams exceeding hundreds of megawatts, and is powered by a three-gigawatt pulsed current. China is also reportedly developing solid-state HPM weapons using GaN semiconductors, alongside the vacuum-based system. This advancement could reshape defense acquisition priorities and battlefield tactics, highlighting China’s growing capabilities in advanced defense technologies.
Directed energy weapons (DEWs) are changing defense technology, with the global market projected to reach $21,462.7 million by 2031. Top 10 innovators in the market include Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd, Rheinmetall AG, MBDA, RTX, BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman Corporation, Elbit Systems Ltd, and Honeywell International Inc. Companies are focusing on laser, microwave, and other directed energy technologies for military applications. Key trends in the DEWs market include growing defense investments, rising demand for laser weapons, integration with counter-unmanned aerial systems, focus on non-lethal applications, miniaturization and platform integration, enhanced power sources, shift to autonomous DEWs, and increased collaboration and joint ventures.
In late 2024, the U.S. Navy tested its HELIOS weapon system against a threat-representative cruise missile using the USS Preble (DDG 88), marking a milestone for the HELIOS program. The Center for Countermeasures (CCM) supported the test by collecting imagery. The HELIOS weapon test is part of a broader U.S. Navy family of laser weapons being developed to mature maritime application technology. The U.S. Navy has also been working on other laser weapon systems, such as the Optical Dazzling Interdictor, Navy (ODIN). The Navy is focused on developing laser systems to counter anti-ship cruise missiles and plans further testing and integration onto surface combatants.
The top five energy technology trends of 2025, according to the World Economic Forum, include:
Security, cost, and jobs: Energy security, affordability, and industrial policy are driving energy technology choices globally, with clean energy investments continuing to grow rapidly. Countries like China, Europe, and the US are investing in renewables to reduce dependence on oil and gas imports.
Decarbonization: Policymakers and companies are prioritizing decarbonization and emissions reductions, with a focus on minimizing local pollution from energy production.
China’s domination: China is a major force in next-generation energy technologies, investing heavily in renewables, energy storage, and nuclear power.
India ascends: India has made significant progress in its energy transition investment, surpassing its renewable energy goals ahead of schedule and emerging as a major player in energy storage and clean hydrogen.
AI hunger: Data center electricity consumption is expected to double by 2030, with AI driving much of this growth. Power availability is becoming a key factor in data center site selection, with a shift towards onsite power generation for sustainability and carbon reduction goals.
The article discusses advancements in Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) such as high-energy lasers (HEL), particle beam weapons, and high-powered microwave (HPM) systems. It highlights the DragonFire laser weapon, HPM, HPRF technology, and the integration of DEWs with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and missile defense systems. Particle beams are mentioned as a category within DEWs, with challenges like energy requirements and maintenance. The article also covers the use of millimeter waves in DEWs for crowd control and anti-drone systems. Overall, DEWs are seen as transforming military forces with precision and effectiveness in modern warfare.
