High Power Microwaves

The objective of the proposed research and development work is to create two new types of compact, autonomous, pulse-detonation-driven high-power microwave sources that provide multiple pulse radiation. These systems are to be used to construct small to medium caliber munitions (40-mm to 155-mm) to increase the scope of the target set, and enhance destruction capability. These types of microwave generators are intended to radiate a series of ultra-wideband pulses of gigawatt power. The systems can be in operation from few seconds to several tens of minutes depending on the caliber. Another objective of the proposed research and development work is to create single-shot, autonomous, completely explosive high-power microwave system based on a shock wave ferromagnetic generator (FMG) as a seed source, a multi-stage magnetic flux compression generator (MFCG) as a pulsed power amplifier, an inductive energy storage with the exploding wire opening switch, and compact coaxial sealed-off virtual cathode oscillator (vircator) as a radiating stage. This autonomous system will be simple, reliable in operation, inexpensive and easily produced. It will fit into a 50-155 mm diameter and will be used to construct small to medium caliber munitions to increase the scope of the target set and enhance destruction capability.