China develops high-power microwave weapon capable of disabling satellite networks

Chinese scientists have developed a high-powered microwave weapon capable of disabling satellites operating in low Earth orbit.

According to a report by the South China Morning Post, the device, designated the TPG1000Cs, was developed at the Northwest Institute of Nuclear Technology in Xi’an. It utilizes high-energy electromagnetic waves to specifically target and disrupt electronic systems.

Experts noted that the device is capable of generating a continuous 20-gigawatt signal for up to one minute. Sources cited in the report stated that this capacity is sufficient to obstruct the operation of large satellite networks, including Starlink, or inflict permanent damage on their hardware.

The developed system is remarkably compact compared to similar technologies, measuring four meters in length and weighing five tons. These dimensions allow the weapon to be mounted on trucks, warships, aircraft, and even spacecraft.

Experts warn that if the system were deployed in space, it would become significantly more difficult to detect and neutralize. It was emphasized that previous similar systems were much larger and could not operate for more than three seconds at a time.

Information regarding China’s new weapon technology comes at a time of increasing global concern over the militarization of space.

In early February, journalist Vladimir Solovyov, speaking on the Russian state television channel Rossiya 1, stated that Elon Musk’s Starlink satellites—which have imposed restrictions on Russian troops at Ukraine’s request—are a “legitimate target.” Solovyov suggested that the option of destroying these satellites through a nuclear explosion in space should be evaluated.

A report prepared by the US Space Force Intelligence unit in March 2025 highlighted the rapid growth in China’s military space capacity. The document noted that Chinese space operations have increased by 620% since 2015, and the country now possesses a fleet of over 1,000 satellites.

The report also stated that the People’s Liberation Army views space operations as a primary deterrent in a potential regional conflict.