Pentagon eyes EMP weapons to kill swarming drone attacks

The Pentagon is taking the first step to deploy electromagnetic pulse weapons against drone attacks, a sign of its concern about enemy drone fleets and acceptance of EMP warfare.

The Air Force is taking the lead in asking industry leaders if a weapon system is available or can be built to take out small drones, or unmanned aircraft vehicles.

BIDEN LOSING YOUNG VOTERS TO TRUMP AS HE FALLS BEHIND IN TWO SWING STATES

And while the service, for now, is interested only in white papers, it is clear from its note to possible makers that the Pentagon wants to deploy a new system that can down attackers with a pulse of electricity capable of frying electronics.

“The Air Force Research Laboratory is conducting market research to seek information from industry on the landscape of research and development for available Electromagnetic Pulse (EMP) solutions towards countering multiple Unmanned Aircraft Systems,” the “request for information” said.

Several U.S. enemies have an offensive EMP attack plan, but those rely on nuclear explosions in the atmosphere targeting electric grids. The United States is hardening grids on some military bases against an attack, an initiative started by former President Donald Trump.

SEE THE LATEST POLITICAL NEWS AND BUZZ FROM WASHINGTON SECRETS

The defensive weapon sought by the Air Force appears focused on a smaller-scale land or aircraft-based system that can counter conventional attack drones.

In the description of what it wants, published on the government contracts website SAM.gov, the Air Force appears to believe the type of system it wants already exists.