Scott Nicholas
BAE Systems looks to integrate its microwave close-in weapon system onboard U.S. Navy platforms to provide additional naval capacities against threats such as aircraft, boats, drones and missiles, The Drive reported Thursday.
The company’s microwave weapon is equipped with an array of planar emitters and uses the Mk38Â defense platform currently mounted on vessels around the world.
The weapon system is equipped with a microwave generator that features an electromagnetic pulse and a turret that points to a target before firing.
The BAE Systems platform was tested at various ranges and against multiple target types before it was displayed at the annual Surface Navy Association symposium.
The report noted the system could potentially be merged with surface combatants of varying sizes or commercial vessels that require an anti-piracy platform.
