Step 1
The high-power microwave emits high-peak-power radio frequency waves in the direction of a target.
We have been a leader in high-power microwaves for nearly a century. Our ability to constantly innovate enables us to shape the systems and solutions that advance defense.
Leveraging an extensive bench of technical and operational experts in non-kinetic defense systems allows us to layer this technology with our traditional defenses to deliver innovative capabilities with better performance and greater speed at lower cost.
How HPM Works
Step 2
The RF waves travel at the speed of light and spread out as they travel, creating a "web" of energy.
Step 3
When the waves reach the target, the energy causes instantaneous failure of the electronic components.
Defense in Depth
Affordable, near-continuous engagement with directed energy
Reverses cost-exchange ratio
Able to integrate and collaborate with existing kinetic weapons and fire control
Provides area air defense against a diverse set of threats
Effectively infinite magazine at low cost
Mix of kinetic and directed energy offers new options for shooting doctrines
Speed of Light Effect
High-Power Microwaves play a key role in America’s layered defense strategy and are cost-effective, reliable solutions. This technology will help defend against peer threats and support our frontline troops by defeating airborne threats at the speed of light. HPMs provide instantaneous target interaction, can engage threats multiple times and prevent the need for defensive maneuvers.
“It is not technology for technology’s sake. It’s technology to get capability to the field, and I think we’re all very passionate about that.”
Colin Whelan
Raytheon Advanced Technology business president
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“It became obvious that if we tried to build the (SPY-6) radar out of the premier semiconductor at the time, which was gallium arsenide, it was going to be large and expensive because you would have to put together many of these little power amplifier chips to get to the power level you wanted.”
Steve Bernstein
Raytheon Advanced Technology senior engineering fellow
“It created a category of weapons capability that didn’t exist before.”
Kevin Bredehoft
Raytheon Advanced Technology HAWC program manager
“This is going to be eye-watering, transformational performance for the country and our international partners. Just to be a part of it and say, ‘I was there at the beginning, and I helped drive this,’.. I can’t ask for anything more.”
Steve Labitt
Raytheon LTAMDS technical director
