The US Navy develops its first microwave weapon against drones

The means of warfare are evolving rapidly, driven by technological advances. Among these innovations, microwave weapons are emerging as an effective response to the proliferation of drones, which have transformed the landscape of modern conflicts. The US Navy, aware of this growing threat, plans to test its first high-power microwave weapon prototype in 2026 as part of the METEOR project.


This experimental project aims to develop a weapon capable of emitting intense electromagnetic energy beams to neutralize enemy drones by disrupting their electronic systems. Unlike conventional weapons such as missiles and bullets, microwave weapons offer the advantage of a multi-target approach while being relatively economical, and without causing damage to surrounding infrastructure.

The need for such technologies stems partly from the rise of inexpensive drones, which have revolutionized warfare tactics by enabling coordinated and difficult-to-counter attacks. This evolution raises concerns about the security of the armed forces, especially since drones could be combined with artificial intelligence, thus increasing their ability to precisely target objectives.

The METEOR project represents a major advancement in defense against drones, providing the US Navy with an effective and economical solution to counter this emerging threat. This initiative reflects the constant adaptation of the armed forces to technological developments, with the goal of maintaining a strategic advantage in a world where conflicts are continuously redefined.