High power microwave technologies for vehicle integration

Abstract

Modern digital electronics are of increased sensibility against electromagnetic radiation in the lower GHz range. The application of high power microwave weapons in order to destroy such electronics generate a new capability of defense, antiterror and rapid reaction forces. By the nonlethal and low collateral damage properties of HPM Weapons they will get an important position in future operations. HPM-systems on vehicles can fulfill a variety of different tasks. Active protection against electronic mines or area defense weapons until direct operations against i.e. electronic communication systems or safety systems give a wide range of applications within different scenarios. At Rheinmetall in cooperation with Diehl Munitionssysteme HPM-Technologies are investigated and developed for different kinds of defense and antiterror applications. The goal is a short term realization and fielding of first HPM-systems for portable and mobile platforms i.e. All electric combat vehicles. In the paper the set-up of a repetitive ultra wideband HPM System for vehicle integration and some of its target interactions are presented. The electric requirements at the interface to the power bus of a vehicle are presented. The paper closes with the introduction of an HPM integration concept into an existing combat vehicle and the discussion of some scenarios for such application.