Development of Decision-Making Factors to Determine EMP Protection Level: A Case Study of a Brigade-Level EMP Protection Facility

Kukjoo Kim,Young-Jun Park

doi:10.3390/app11115227

Abstract

This study developed decision-making factors to classify electromagnetic pulse (EMP) protection levels and determine various protection measures. We proposed three EMP protection levels of 80, 60, and 40 dB by considering the characteristics of military equipment and factors that determine EMP protection level, based on a Delphi study. We modeled EMP protection facilities for brigade-level troops to evaluate the derived decision-making factors and applicability of differential protection levels. The natural attenuation effect of soil was confirmed for structures installed underground. The shielding effect of wet soil was up to 30 dB. Considering the 20 dB EMP resistance of military equipment and the 30 dB of attenuation of wet soil, new materials with 30 dB of shielding efficiency could be used to meet an EMP protection level of 80 dB. Therefore, we confirmed that EMP protection measures could be established to build mobile, lightweight shelters. If lightweight shelters are constructed by applying the differential protection level scheme, they can be applied as a more effective EMP protection measure. Furthermore, differential protection measures can be adopted as a sustainable defense facility policy approach, wherein lightweight protection facilities replace conventional heavyweight facilities.

Highlights

IntroductionThe nuclear capability of North Korea was demonstrated through nuclear and missile tests [1]
September 2017, immediately after the sixth nuclear test, North Korea claimed that they were capable of attacking with an ultra-powerful electromagnetic pulse (EMP) by detonating a hydrogen bomb high in the atmosphere [2]
It was predicted that North Korea would aim to maximize an EMP effect that could destroy infrastructure systems such as electric power, telecommunications, and finances, rather than nuclear provocation for the purpose of killing people

Summary

Introduction

The nuclear capability of North Korea was demonstrated through nuclear and missile tests [1]. Electromagnetic pulse (EMP) threats have increased in. North Korea is intensively developing asymmetric strategic weapons, as demonstrated by the sixth nuclear test and missile transporter erector launcher tests. September 2017, immediately after the sixth nuclear test, North Korea claimed that they were capable of attacking with an ultra-powerful EMP by detonating a hydrogen bomb high in the atmosphere [2]. It was predicted that North Korea would aim to maximize an EMP effect that could destroy infrastructure systems such as electric power, telecommunications, and finances, rather than nuclear provocation for the purpose of killing people.

Objectives

Findings

Discussion

Conclusion