Characteristics of weapons based on new physical principles

RF weapon
V last years intensified research on the study of the biological effect of electromagnetic radiation. The main place in research is devoted to the impact on people of electromagnetic radiation in the radio frequency range from extremely low (f = 3-30 Hz) to ultrahigh (f = 3-30 GHz). The study of these frequency ranges of electromagnetic radiation can be the basis for the creation of a new type of weapon based on new physical principles (NFP) - radio frequency weapons.

RF weapons in the microwave range sometimes called microwave or microwave - weapons. At the same time, first of all, the effect of radiation on the central nervous and cardiovascular systems is studied, since they regulate the activity of all other organs and systems, determine the state of the psyche and human behavior. It has now been established that when acting on the central nervous system the greatest biological effect is caused by radiation, which in its parameters correspond to the electromagnetic fields of the brain and coordinate the activities of its centers. In this regard, detailed study the spectrum of electromagnetic radiation of the centers of the human brain and the possibility of developing means of oppression and stimulation of their activity is being investigated.

As a result of experiments carried out in the United States, it was determined that with a single exposure to a person of radiation with certain frequencies in the radio frequency range from 30 to 30,000 MHz (meter and decimeter waves) with an intensity of more than 10 MW / cm2, headache, weakness, depression, increased irritability, fear, impaired decision-making ability, memory impairment.

Exposure of the brain to radio waves in the frequency range of 0.3-3 GHz (decimeter waves) at an intensity of up to 2 MW / cm2 causes a sensation of whistling, buzzing, humming, clicking, which disappear with appropriate shielding. It has also been established that powerful electromagnetic radiation can cause severe burns and blinding.
According to scientists, with the help of electromagnetic radiation, it is possible to remotely and purposefully influence a person, which makes it possible to use radio-frequency weapons to conduct psychological sabotage and disorganize the control of enemy troops. With regard to their troops, electromagnetic radiation can be used to increase resistance to stress arising in the course of hostilities.

With the help of microwave weapons, it will be possible to disrupt the operation of any electronic systems. Promising magnetrons and klystrons with a capacity of up to 1 GW using phased array antennas will disrupt the functioning of airfields, missile launch sites, centers and command posts, and disable troops and weapons control systems.

With the adoption of such means as powerful mobile microwave generators of all types of basing by the armies of the opposing sides, it will be possible to block the weapon systems of the opposing side. This puts microwave weapons among the highest priority weapons of the future.

Infrasound weapon

Infrasonic weapons are one of the types of DNFP based on the use of directed radiation of powerful infrasonic vibrations. Prototypes of such weapons already exist and have been repeatedly considered as possible test objects.

Of practical interest are oscillations with a frequency from tenths and even hundredths to units of hertz. Infrasound is characterized by low absorption in different environments, as a result of which infrasonic waves in air, in water and in the earth's crust can propagate over long distances, penetrate through concrete and metal barriers.

According to studies conducted in some countries, infrasonic vibrations can affect the central nervous system and digestive organs, causing paralysis, vomiting and spasms, leading to general malaise and pain during internal organs, and at higher levels at frequencies of units of hertz - to dizziness, nausea, loss of consciousness, and sometimes to blindness and even death. Infrasonic weapons can also cause people to panic, lose control of themselves, and an irresistible desire to hide from the source of injury. Certain frequencies can affect the middle ear, causing vibrations, which in turn cause sensations akin to those of motion sickness, motion sickness. The range of its action is determined by the radiated power, the value of the carrier frequency, the width of the directional pattern and the conditions of propagation of acoustic vibrations in a real environment.

According to press reports, work on the creation of an infrasonic weapon is nearing completion in the United States. The transformation of electrical energy into sound low frequency occurs with the help of piezoelectric crystals, the shape of which changes under the influence of an electric current. Prototypes of infrasonic weapons have already been used in Yugoslavia. The so-called "acoustic bomb" produced very low frequency sound vibrations.

Geophysical weapons

Geophysical weapons are understood as weapons, the destructive effect of which is based on the use of natural phenomena and artificial processes for military purposes. Depending on the environment in which these processes occur, it is subdivided into atmospheric, lithospheric, hydrospheric, biospheric and ozone. The means by which geophysical factors are stimulated can be different, but the energy expended by these means is always much less than the energy released by the forces of nature as a result of the caused geophysical process

Atmospheric (weather) weapons- the most researched species to date geophysical weapons... With regard to atmospheric weapons, its damaging factors are various kinds of atmospheric processes and associated weather and climatic conditions, on which life can depend, both in individual regions and on the entire planet. To date, it has been established that many active reagents, for example, silver iodide, solid carbon dioxide and other substances, being dispersed in clouds, are capable of causing torrential rains over large areas. On the other hand, reagents such as propane, carbon dioxide, and lead iodide provide fog dissipation. Spraying of these substances can be carried out using ground generators and on-board devices installed on airplanes and rockets.

In areas where the moisture content of the air is high, the above method can cause heavy rains and thereby change the water regime of rivers, lakes, swamps, significantly worsen the passability of roads and terrain, and cause floods in low-lying areas. On the other hand, if artificial precipitation is provided on the approaches to areas with a large moisture deficit, it is possible to remove a significant amount of the latter from the atmosphere and cause drought in these areas.

Lithospheric weapon based on the use of the energy of the lithosphere, that is, the outer sphere of the "solid" earth, including the earth's crust and the upper layer of the mantle. In this case, the damaging effect is manifested in the form of such catastrophic phenomena as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and the movement of geological formations. The source of the energy released in this case is tension in tectonically dangerous zones.

Experiments carried out by a number of researchers have shown that in some earthquake-prone areas of the Earth, earthquakes can be initiated with the help of ground or underground nuclear explosions of relatively low power, which can lead to catastrophic consequences.

Hydrosphere weapon based on the use of hydrosphere energy for military purposes. The hydrosphere is the discontinuous watery shell of the Earth, located between the atmosphere and the solid earth's crust (lithosphere). It is a collection of oceans, seas and surface waters.

The use of the energy of the hydrosphere for military purposes is possible by influencing hydro resources (oceans, seas, rivers, lakes) and hydraulic structures not only by nuclear explosions, but also by large charges of conventional explosives. Striking factors hydrosphere weapons will be strong waves and flooding.

Biosphere weapon (ecological) based on a catastrophic change in the biosphere. The biosphere encompasses part of the atmosphere, the hydrosphere and the upper part of the lithosphere, which are interconnected by complex biochemical cycles of migration of substances and energy. Currently, there are chemical and biological agents, the use of which in large areas can destroy the vegetation cover, the surface fertile soil layer, food supplies, etc.

Artificially caused soil erosion, death of vegetation, irreparable damage to flora and fauna due to the use of various kinds chemicals, incendiary weapons can lead to a catastrophic change in the biosphere and, as a consequence, mass destruction of people.

Ozone weapon is based on the use of the energy of ultraviolet radiation emitted by the sun. The shielding ozone layer extends at an altitude of 10 to 50 km with a maximum concentration at an altitude of 20-25 km and a sharp decrease up and down. Under normal conditions, an insignificant part of the UV radiation with λ = 0.01-0.2 µm reaches the Earth's surface. Its main part, passing through the atmosphere, is absorbed by ozone, scattered by air molecules and dust particles. Ozone is one of the most powerful oxidants, it kills microorganisms and is poisonous. Its destruction is accelerated in the presence of a number of gaseous impurities, especially bromine, chlorine, fluorine and their compounds, which can be delivered to the ozone layer using rockets, aircraft and other means.

Partial destruction of the ozone layer over the enemy's territory, artificial creation of temporary "windows" in the protective ozone layer can lead to damage to the population, flora and fauna in the planned area of ​​the Earth due to the impact of high doses of hard UVR and other radiation of cosmic origin.

Recently, weapons based on the so-called "new physical principles" have been heard. The term has already been used in their speeches even by the country's top officials - the President and the Minister of Defense. "Defend Russia" decided to find out what the ONFP is and what types of it there are.

In general terms, these are weapons based on physical processes and phenomena not previously used in conventional weapons - cold, firearms, or in weapons of mass destruction - nuclear, chemical, biological.

The concept of NPP is rather arbitrary, since all these principles are well known. The only new thing is their use in the creation of military equipment. The term "unconventional weapon" will be much more accurate here.

So, what are the types of this exciting "weapon of the future" that stand out? Note that the list below is not complete.

Directed energy weapon

This type of weapon already exists and is being used in test mode. It acts on the basis of concentrating beam energy, a weapon that emits energy in a given direction without using wires, darts or other conductors to achieve a lethal or non-lethal effect. I would like to highlight one type of directed energy weapon - this is a laser weapon. When used, its rays propagate at the speed of light, so many factors fade into the background. It is impossible to dodge such a weapon; it still hits right on target.

Electromagnetic weapon

Its principle of operation is based on electromagnetic radiation, which affects vulnerable components of military electronics and weapons. To give initial speed the projectile uses a magnetic field, or the energy of electromagnetic radiation, which is used directly to hit the target. Most often, the target of destruction of this type of weapon becomes: household radio stations, cell phones, tablets, laptops, radio mines and mines with electronic fuses, including traditional amateur radio devices for terrorist and sabotage actions. Also, there are already means of protection against EMP. One of them is the famous "Faraday cage" interfering with electromagnetic weapons outside their frequencies. Also, as a means of protection, they use: blocking the input of a part of the energy of an electromagnetic pulse, suppressing induction currents inside electrical circuits by quickly opening them.

Non-lethal weapon

Or, as the media call it - "humane": its main tasks are to influence people and military equipment, depriving them of their combat capability for a certain time, while causing them minimal damage to their health. It is divided into categories such as: mechanical, chemical, electrical and light and sound devices, which are most often used by law enforcement agencies and special services to provide psychophysical, traumatic and restraining effects on offenders, temporarily incapacitating them, as well as by army special forces to capture the enemy alive ...

Accelerating weapon

The main principle of its operation is the transfer of energy to the striking element, which provides acceleration of one type or another. In such a weapon, the accelerator accelerates a beam of elementary particles or plasma, which leads to a shot at the target. A feature of this type of weapon can be considered that it can be used both in the atmosphere and outside it, that is, in outer space. A prime example of this type of weapon is the electromagnetic catapult.

Infrasound weapon

The basic principle of its operation is the use of low frequency acoustic waves. Its effect on people depends on the strength of the infrasonic wave. It has been reported to cause the subject to feel fear, terror, or panic. The most dangerous is the appearance of psychosis, which can later develop into somatic disorders and be fatal. At a meeting with permanent members of the Security Council of the Russian Federation, Dmitry Medvedev announced that infrasonic weapons would be widely used in wars in the near future.

Geophysical, or seismic weapons

It is aimed at managing the hydrosphere, lithosphere, ozonosphere, magnetosphere, and ionosphere. Thus, forming destructive cataclysms such as: earthquakes, tectonic movements and faults, volcanic eruptions and secondary catastrophes caused by them in the form of tsunamis.

Climatic weapon

A type of geophysical weapon based on changes in the meteorological situation in the atmosphere, both on a single territory, country, and on entire states, continents, continents. The principle of operation of this weapon is that there is a huge concentration in one place of a large accumulation of energy, which subsequently affects the natural course of synoptic processes over a vast territory. For the weapon to work, the accumulated energy must be no less than the energy that the synoptic formation itself possesses.

Ozone weapon

It is the alleged type of geophysical weapon. Its main tasks are: to significantly change the living conditions of organic life in certain geographical areas, creating favorable conditions so that nothing interferes with the penetration of hard solar radiation through the atmosphere. The means of delivery can be space vehicles, balloons, rocket systems, artillery or rockets. Spraying can be done by explosion or with special sprayers. Its main features are: an accurate understanding of the height and coordinates of the area of ​​spraying of chemical reagents, linking it with the time of day, season of the year and factors that affect the condition.

Genetic weapons

It is also commonly called an ethnic weapon. It is a kind of analogue of biological weapons, which is aimed at selective destruction of people: by nationality, sex or other genetic condition. Its action is to attack precisely those pathogenic microorganisms that will be laid. These can be men of the same nation, whose organism has its own certain genetic differences. Or the attack can take place on a whole layer of the nation. Due to the fact that the pathogenic effect has been enhanced, all drugs that existed before the advent of genetic weapons may be powerless in the fight against them.

Precision weapons

Precision weapons (HTO) are a special type of highly effective conventional weapon. Such a weapon, as a rule, is guided, capable of hitting the target with the first shot at a given (and sufficiently high) probability at any range within its reach. As a result of the ongoing scientific and technological revolution, it became possible to create high-precision weapons, which, according to a number of military experts, will determine the nature of a future war. Allows you to inflict extremely accurate strikes at attacked objects (up to hitting the required window of a given structure). Due to high-precision hitting the target, it has, as a rule, limited power of combat equipment, selected from the condition that the affected area does not significantly exceed the size of a typical target. Key role homing heads (GOS) play in ensuring the implementation of the WTO.

Weapons based on new physical principles

A weapon based on new physical principles (NFP) is a type of weapon based on qualitatively new or previously unused physical, biological and other principles of action and technical solutions based on advances in new fields of knowledge and new technologies. The term is conventional in nature, since in most cases the well-known physical principles are used in the DNFP samples, and their application in weapons is new. Depending on the principle of action, the following types of DNFP are distinguished: laser, radio frequency, beam and other types of weapons.

Laser weapon

Laser weapons - special kind a promising directed energy weapon based on the use of laser radiation to destroy people and disable military equipment (primarily, optoelectronic reconnaissance and weapon control systems). Such weapons can use gas, solid-state and chemical lasers with appropriate control and guidance systems. Currently, only low-energy laser devices are used. Along with this, the possibility of forceful destruction of structural elements of military equipment by a laser beam was experimentally tested. including hulls for ballistic missiles and other aircraft. However, the appearance in the armament of troops and naval forces of samples of this type of weapon is still problematic due to its bulkiness, high energy intensity and other negative operational factors.

Accelerator (beam) weapons These weapons are based on the use of highly targeted beams of charged or neutral particles generated by various types of accelerators, both ground-based and space-based. The defeat of various objects and a person is determined by radiation (ionizing) and thermomechanical effects. Beam means can destroy the shells of aircraft hulls, hit ballistic missiles and space objects by disabling on-board electronic equipment.

Ultra High Frequency Weapons

Ultrahigh-frequency (UHF) weapons are a possible promising type of weapon based on the use of radio-electronic components of military equipment to defeat (mainly functional) radio-electronic components. In the system of such weapons, microwave energy generators in the millimeter and centimeter wavelengths and the corresponding antenna systems, which together form directional radiation, can be used. Usually refers to a reusable weapon. Along with this, a search is underway for single-action explosive generators and the creation on their basis of bombs (missile warheads) that hit household and military electronics at distances of tens of kilometers, which can make these weapons very effective.

Geophysical weapons

Geophysical weapons are possible promising types of weapons, the damaging effect of which is associated with the initiation of catastrophic natural phenomena (changes in the ozone layer, climatic conditions, provoking earthquakes, etc.). The development of such weapons is associated with the solution of a number of complex problems, therefore, its appearance is possible only in the future, however, experiments, incl. public, in the field of weather engineering are underway.

Gene weapons Means of destruction of the human genetic apparatus or "gene weapons" are substances of chemical or biological origin that can cause mutations (changes in the structure) of genes in the human body, accompanied by impaired health or programmed behavior of people. A special type of genetic weapon is the so-called ethnic weapon - a weapon with a selective genetic factor. It is designed to defeat primarily certain ethnic and racial groups of the population. The possibility of the development and subsequent use of such weapons comes from the genetic differences of different races and ethnic groups of people. Animals, plants, soil microflora, specific for a given area of ​​the Earth and components of important condition human existence in the area.

The exposition of the military-technical forum "Army-2016", which took place in September in the Moscow region, demonstrated samples of ultra-modern weapons, mainly electronic ones, created on new physical principles. Most of these exhibits were closed for public access and were shown exclusively to specialists who had the necessary forms of admission to the state secret.

But the very fact of the demonstration of such developments allows us to conclude that the enterprises of the Russian defense industry are carrying out work and have even made significant progress in the field of creating such weapons.

What is this weapon? And what new physical principles are used as the basis for its creation?

The very concept of "weapons based on new physical principles" (DNFP) is very conditional, since in most cases the known physical principles are used, only their application in weapons is new.

The military-political dictionary “War and Peace” says: “… At the beginning of the 21st century, this type of weapon includes laser, accelerator, ultrahigh-frequency, infrasonic, geophysical, cyber weapons, and so on. In terms of their destructive properties, these weapons (at least some of their types) should be classified as weapons of mass destruction. Its use can lead to a new revolutionary and dangerous leap in military affairs. "

Despite the complexity of the development and production of some of the types of this weapon, experts consider it quite promising, since in most cases it has secrecy and suddenness of use, the ability to paralyze the command and control system, disable personnel and equipment.

Most often, the DNFP is classified as follows.

Laser weapon- a special type of promising directed energy weapon based on the use of laser radiation to destroy people and disable military equipment (primarily optoelectronic reconnaissance and weapon control systems).

Currently, only low-energy laser devices are used. Along with this, the possibility of forceful destruction of structural elements of military equipment, including bodies of ballistic missiles and other aircraft, was experimentally tested. However, the appearance in the armament of troops and naval forces of samples of this type of weapon is still problematic due to its bulkiness, high energy intensity and other negative operational factors.

In 2010-2011, the US Navy tested a solid-state laser designed to protect ships from small craft. In addition, air, ground and space-based combat lasers are being developed.

Accelerating weapon (beam)- a possible promising type of weapon based on the use of streams or beams of elementary particles (hydrogen, helium, lithium atoms, etc.) to destroy manpower and military equipment.

Ultrahigh-frequency (microwave) weapon- a possible promising type of weapon based on the use of radio-electronic components of military equipment for destruction (mainly functional). In the system of such weapons, microwave energy generators in the millimeter and centimeter wavelengths and the corresponding antenna systems, which together form directional radiation, can be used. Usually refers to a reusable weapon.

Along with this, a search is underway for single-action explosive generators and the creation on their basis of bombs (missile warheads) that hit household and military electronics at distances of tens of kilometers, which can make these weapons very effective. Most likely, it will appear in service as a deterrent against aggression.

Infrasound weapon- a promising type of weapon based on the damaging effect on the human body of sound vibrations of infra-low (from units to 30 hertz) frequencies. It can be used as a weapon of mass destruction.

- specific software designed to control, destabilize or interfere with the operation of information systems and computer networks of the enemy in order to suppress communications, political agitation, disable computer-controlled weapons, and solve other problems.

Geophysical weapons- possible promising types of weapons, the damaging effect of which is associated with the initiation of catastrophic natural phenomena (changes in the ozone layer, climatic conditions, provoking earthquakes, etc.). True, the development of such a weapon is associated with the solution of a number of complex problems, therefore, its appearance is possible only in the future, however, experiments, including public ones, in the field of weather engineering are underway.

New types of ONFP do not always aim to defeat the enemy by destroying him. That is why such weapons are often called non-lethal (non-lethal). Some examples of such weapons have already been used in armed conflicts in Somalia, Haiti, and Iraq.

So, during Operation Desert Storm, electromagnetic weapons were used, the means of delivery of which to the targets were Tomahawk cruise missiles. As a result, short circuits arose in the power grids of power plants and transmission lines, which ultimately led to a disruption in the power supply of Iraqi control and air defense systems during the decisive period of the operation.

Also in the United States was developed a laser blinding machine "Saber-203", which could be installed in a 40-mm grenade launcher. Its experimental prototype was used in 1995 in Somalia. Laser blinders had American troops in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

During the NATO hostilities in Yugoslavia, a number of samples of non-lethal weapons were tested, such as "graphite", light, acoustic and electromagnetic bombs, a bomb that creates an intolerable smell, laser devices, sticky foam. At the very first use of the "graphite" bomb, NATO aircraft put two-thirds of Serbia's energy system out of action for several hours.

At the initiative of the United States within the framework of NATO, a special working group has been created to coordinate military-applied research in the field of non-lethal weapons. Priority areas include research of such types of it that cause the enemy to lose strength (a sharp decrease in activity), loss of spatial orientation, loss of consciousness, pain.

Are you working on the creation of such weapons in Russia?

Answering this question, it should be noted that weapons based on new physical principles were very actively developed back in the days of the USSR. Moreover, in some areas we have bypassed the United States here for at least 15 years.

For example, Marshal of the Soviet Union Dmitry Ustinov once suggested using a laser system to escort an American shuttle. And on October 10, 1984, during the 13th flight of the Challenger, when its orbits were passing over the Balkhash region, the experiment took place. The laser locator measured the parameters of the target while operating in the detection mode with the minimum radiation power. Moreover, the orbit of the spacecraft was 365 kilometers, the inclined detection and tracking range was 400–800 kilometers.

As a result, communications on the shuttle were suddenly cut off, equipment malfunctioned, and the astronauts felt unwell. When the Americans began to figure out what had happened, they realized that the crew had undergone some artificial influence from the USSR. An official protest was made. In the future, the laser installation and radio-technical complexes, which have a high energy potential, were not used to accompany the shuttles.

In the 90s, all work at the landfills was curtailed, the equipment was removed to the territory of Russia, and some of the facilities were blown up. However, the experience gained from the program was not lost. Since the beginning of the 2000s, the commissioning of new complexes began: "Okno" - Mount Sanglok (Nurek in Tajikistan) and "Okno-S" - Mount Lysaya on Far East... And also complexes "Krona" are being introduced in the North Caucasus and "Krona-N" - also in the Far East.

Recently, work on a similar object can be observed in the Crimea, near Feodosia. Their functions, of course, are designated as purely peaceful - "control and measuring optoelectronic systems for tracking space objects."

Another example. In the USSR, in 1985, on the basis of the Il-76, the A-60 aircraft was created, which was an experimental flying laboratory, a carrier of laser weapons, designed to study the propagation of laser beams in the upper layers of the atmosphere, and later to suppress enemy reconnaissance. The A-60 was an aviation version of the megawatt laser carrier. This laser was planned to be launched into space as a weapon of the Skif-D combat orbital platform.

However, in the 90s, as a result of "democratic reforms", most of the work in this area was curtailed. And part of the developments, and quite a large one, was directly transferred to the United States.

Russia had to revert to this topic of weapons based on new physical principles relatively recently, when it became clear that the US missile defense system is not just a new military system, but a technological breakthrough. And it is based on systems with new fighting qualities based on new principles.

For example, a ground interceptor is a system that ensures the destruction of a ballistic missile warhead at a distance of several thousand kilometers without an explosion by a direct hit with a striking element. That is, at a distance of two to three or five thousand kilometers, this interceptor must ensure that it hits a target the size of a refrigerator. These are, of course, laser systems, beam systems, that is, the same weapon based on new physical principles of hitting a target by direct transfer of not kinetic, but beam, beam energy.

If we draw analogies, then from the point of view of historical parallels, the creation of a missile defense system can be compared with the transition from a bow and arrow to firearms... That is why Russia, in order to compete with the United States, also has to move into this new era.

And here a number of areas are a priority. First of all, these are, again, laser systems, which must solve the problem of hitting both ballistic missiles and dynamic flying vehicles within the framework of their own missile defense system.

Another direction in the development of weapons based on new physical principles is electromagnetic bombs and other electromagnetic weapons. In recent years, Russia has made significant progress in this direction.

First of all, we can talk about continuous-action electronic suppression stations. They, acting on the input circuits of electronic devices, lead to their combustion, disabling. Moreover, the Russian military has repeatedly demonstrated its combat capabilities in the field of new weapons.

In particular, during the Crimean events, after which a serious scandal erupted in the United States: how did the Kremlin fool not only US intelligence analysts, but also the military satellites that followed Crimea? Why did the secret services miss the appearance of "polite people" on the peninsula? The Pentagon was forced to admit: Russia has made significant progress in the latest technologies, because its military was able to "hide" from the American tracking systems.

Today, in the field of electronic warfare, Russia occupies a leading position: in terms of equipment that is put on airplanes, the United States and I go head to head, and as for ground stations, then they are now the best in the world. A number of these very best samples were demonstrated at the closed exposition of the Army-2016 military-technical forum in the Patriot Park.

E. Batalin,
Professor of the Academy of Military Sciences

Currently in the USA, as well as a number of foreign countries along with the development of traditional types of weapons and military equipment, serious attention is paid to the creation of weapons based on new physical principles (NFP). According to foreign experts, this is due to the fact that the effectiveness of the DNFP * can be significantly higher than that of traditional weapons when performing a number of special combat missions.

The most large-scale work in this direction is being carried out in the United States, where the most significant successes have been achieved in the development and creation of this type of weapon. However, the development of the DNFP is also underway in China, Germany, France and Israel.

This category includes weapons based on qualitatively new or previously not used in this area of ​​military affairs (for the performance of specific combat missions) physical, biological and other principles, technical solutions based on achievements in new areas of knowledge.

The DNFP usually includes directed energy weapons (laser, accelerator and ultrahigh-frequency - UHF), kinetic (electromagnetic rail gun, coaxial electromagnetic and electrothermal gun), acoustic (infrasound), geophysical and genetic weapons.

An analysis of R&D carried out in the United States in the field of creating a DNFP indicates that it is still very far from being implemented in specific combat models or weapon systems ready for adoption. The final answer about the possibility or impossibility of using a certain type of RPP can be given only by comprehensive tests of a demonstration sample with characteristics that are closest to the parameters of a full-scale sample.

The types of DNFP already implemented in demo samples are usually characterized by low capabilities and high vulnerability. At the same time, they are viewed by American specialists as a technological groundwork, which can later become the basis for the creation of highly effective weapons.

Conducting research in the field of DNFP is characterized by a high risk and is associated with the need to solve problems, which can slow down the pace of research or lead, due to the impossibility of overcoming them at the current level of technology development, to the closure of the program for the creation of such weapons as a whole. In addition, during the development of the ONFP, as a rule, a comparative analysis is periodically carried out with the competitive traditional weapons and military equipment systems developed to solve similar combat missions.

Laser weapons (LO) is a weapon that uses high-energy (power from tens of kilowatts to several megawatts) directed coherent electromagnetic radiation generated by a laser. Its damaging effect on the target is determined by the thermomechanical effect of laser radiation, which (taking into account the radiation flux density) can lead to temporary blinding of a person or mechanical destruction (melting or evaporation) of the body of the target object (missile, aircraft, etc.).

American experts consider LO as one of the potentially effective means for solving the problems of anti-missile, anti-aircraft and anti-satellite defense, self-defense of aircraft against surface-to-air missiles and air-to-air missiles, as well as protecting ships from air, ballistic and some surface targets.

Until 2012, the US Department of Defense focused on the creation of LO complexes based on chemical lasers. Installations with an average power of up to several megawatts were developed, and demonstration samples were created and tested. After testing, all programs for the development of such weapons implemented in the United States were closed. Solid-state lasers were taken as the basis for new complexes of laser weapons.

R&D on the creation of a short-range air defense complex based on a high-energy solid-state laser is being carried out by Boeing for the US Army. It is developing a HELMD (High Energy Laser Mobile Demonstrator) mobile air defense laser weapon system based on an Oshkosh Defense four-axle cross-country vehicle.

A modular 105.5 kW solid-state laser (consisting of seven solid-state laser amplifiers with a power of about 15 kW each), which is capable of operating in a continuous mode, was chosen as the basis for creating a laser installation. It was developed under the JHPSSL (Joint High Power Solid-State Laser) interspecies program.

In early 2013, Boeing installed a 10 kW laser on the HELMD. During tests carried out between November 18 and December 10, 2013, this complex hit several dozen missiles, mortar mines and artillery shells, and also proved its ability to counter optoelectronic devices installed on UAVs. The total number of targets hit was about 90 units. The next HELMD review took place in the second half of 2014.

The complex was tested at Eglin Air Force Base (Florida). The results showed that even in fog or strong wind conditions, the beam can be aimed at a target and shoot down a UAV or a 60 mm grenade. Installation of HELMD successfully destroyed or damaged 150 targets. During trials in difficult weather conditions to compensate for atmospheric distortions, most likely, adaptive optics were used.

After 2015, the goal of work in this area will be to install a 50 kW laser on the HELMD. Subsequently, it can be increased to 100 kW, which will make it possible to create on its basis a complex of weapons with a range of destruction / suppression of targets of several kilometers. Perhaps, in this case, not a solid-state, but a modular fiber laser from Lockheed, which it is developing for the American ground forces, will be used.

In the interests of the Air Force, American specialists are conducting R&D on the creation of a complex of tactical airborne laser weapons based on a solid-state laser, developed by specialists from the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) in the framework of the HELLADS (High Energy Liquid Laser Area Defense System) project ... At the end of 2012, a 150 kW laser system was created (two 75 kW modules).

In 2013, a ground-based experimental weapon system was developed and tested at a low power level. The next stage will be full-scale ground tests with the defeat of various targets, in case of successful completion of which it is planned to equip B-1V strategic bombers, transport aircraft, etc. with this weapon system.

The development abroad of ship-based LO systems to protect surface ships from anti-ship missiles, other air, and also a number of surface targets is carried out mainly in the United States. In the long term, when creating a ship-based LO complex, the American Navy is guided by a free electron laser (FEL) of a megawatt class. As an intermediate stage, it was planned to create a 100 kW FEL.

Due to the difficulties with the development of a laser, in 2011 the program for creating a 100-watt FEL faded into the background, and the efforts of American specialists focused on solving key technical and technological problems in cooperation with the US Department of Energy.

Other research activities carried out by the US Navy in the field of LR represent an attempt to use already created low-power lasers.

For example, BAe Sistema is developing a TLS (Tactical Laser System) laser weapon complex, which combines the Mk 38 shipborne anti-aircraft artillery system (ZAK) (25 mm caliber) and a commercially available 10 kW solid-state laser. This system, according to American experts, is designed to combat small ships at a distance of up to 2 km.

In addition to this complex, the company has created a microwave emitter, which will also be placed on the Mk 38 to counter electronic warfare enemy.

The firm "Northrop-Grumman" has developed a complex LO MLD (Maritime Laser Demonstration), which, during tests at the test site on the river. The Potomac, being combined with the ship's radar and navigation system, fired at targets, including motor boats located on the opposite bank. The 15 kW solid-state laser used in the MLD complex is one module from a setup created by the company for the US Army. Its power can be easily increased to the level of 100 kW, in contrast to commercially available lasers used in LR complexes of other manufacturers.

In turn, the company "Raytheon" has created a demo model of a laser weapon complex - LaWS (Laser Weapon System) ship-based - a hybrid of the Falanx ZAK (without a 20-mm cannon) and a 32 kW fiber laser (has a modular design - consists of six commercially available lasers).

Fiber laser technology is considered reliable and proven. In May 2010, the company at the Navy training ground on the island. San Nicholas tested LAWS off the coast of California, during which four UAVs flying over the water were shot down.

The Navy's LAWS LAWS complex was planned to be mounted on the Ponce naval ship and sent as part of the 5th Fleet to the Middle East. In case of successful completion of its tests, the firms "BAe Systems", "Northrop-Grumman" and "Raytheon" will begin in 2016 the development of new shipborne LO systems.

The Navy was also interested in the laser developed by DARPA under the HELLADS program. The Directorate specifically for the Navy ordered a second copy of a 150 kW laser installation in 2013.

Ultrahigh-frequency (microwave) weapon. The principle of operation of microwave ammunition is based on the creation of a powerful, including narrowly directed, electromagnetic impulse, according to the mechanism of action similar to the impulse of a nuclear explosion. This type of weapon is supposed to be used for the following purposes:
- setting up super-powerful active jamming systems for command and control of troops and weapons;
- decommissioning of electric power and electrical systems of weapons and military equipment;
- remote neutralization of improvised explosive devices and ammunition detonation;
- non-lethal impact on personnel (pain shock, loss of consciousness, etc.).

The US Air Force currently has only two microwave systems for conventional combat purposes. The first ADS (Active Denial System) of the Reytheon company is designed to temporarily disable enemy personnel at a distance of about 500 m at a radiation frequency of 95 GHz and a formed beam aperture of 2.0 m. Tests have shown that the pain threshold is reached within 3 with radiation, and after 5 s the pain becomes unbearable.

In 2010, the installation was transferred to Afghanistan for some time, however, as the military said, it was never used in combat.

In addition to ADS, Raytheon has developed and created at least one more sample of the Silent Guardian system, which has less power and dimensions than ADS.

To protect aircraft from missiles launched by terrorists from MANPADS, in the area of ​​civilian airfields, Raytheon has developed a Vigilant Eagle microwave system equipped with a distributed network of infrared sensors surrounding the airfield. In addition, it will include powerful modular pulse generators and an active antenna of two electronically controlled phased arrays with a narrow beam.

When the sensors detect a launching anti-aircraft missile, a microwave installation is activated, which generates a microwave pulse in the direction of the missile, disabling the missile control system. The range of target detection and destruction systems is small. Field tests have confirmed the effectiveness of the Vigilant Eagle system as a means of countering MANPADS, according to Reytheon officials.

Specialists of this company are also showing interest in equipping surface-to-air, air-to-ground and air-to-air missiles with warheads with powerful microwave emitters. If at first these are single-action emitters, then later they may be able to form a series of pulses.

In 2009, the US Air Force signed a contract with Boeing to develop, within three years, within the framework of the CHAMP (Counter-electronic High Power Microwave Advanced Missile Project) a demonstration model of non-lethal microwave weapons placed on board. cruise missile or another air platform. It is designed to suppress enemy electronic devices without damaging the body or other power structures of the enemy's technical or combat assets.

The power electrical equipment of this weapon is based on rechargeable capacitive storage devices, as well as generators with an active phased antenna array and electronically controlled beam.

The Boeing company is developing long-range air-launched missile systems and guided bombs of the Jadam-ER series with advanced microwave chambers, and Raytheon is developing the Mald-V ammunition based on the Mald-U small-sized autonomous false air target AMD-160 "/" Mald-1 ".

It is planned to conduct a series of ground and air tests of a demonstration sample created on the basis of compact microwave technologies. In October 2012, an experimental missile launcher flew to a complex target of seven buildings (the flight lasted about 1 hour) and with a powerful electromagnetic pulse disabled the computers in them with minimal physical damage, and then returned to a predetermined location and landed.

The US Air Force expects this technology to be developed after 2016. In addition, it is planned to equip the AGM-86 ALCM KR with a microwave generator, capable of producing several "shots" during the flight, and testing it.

A special place among microwave systems is occupied by microwave ammunition, the damaging effect of which on the enemy's electronic equipment is carried out by a powerful electromagnetic radiation generated by the explosion.

In 2009, a new type of ammunition was tested in the United States. Its peak power was 35 MW with pulse durations of 100-150 ns in the 2-6 GHz range. The length of the device is 1.5 m, the diameter is about 0.15 m.

The microwave ammunition is based on methods of converting the kinetic energy of explosion, combustion and electrical energy direct current into the energy of a high-power electromagnetic field.

The US Navy is armed with experimental missiles, the non-nuclear warheads of which are equipped with explosive magnetic microwave generators. Some of these missiles were used by the Navy at the initial stage of the war in 1991 in the Persian Gulf to suppress / defeat electronic systems and assets of the Iraqi Armed Forces. But it is impossible to determine the effectiveness of the use of such missiles, since traditional electronic warfare systems were simultaneously used to solve the same problems.

Kinetic weapon (rail-mounted electromagnetic gun). This is a weapon that acts on a target, for example, by means of a projectile accelerated to a speed of several kilometers per second. The kinetic weapon got its name from the effect on the target of the kinetic energy of damaging elements.

The US Navy command is engaged in the development of ultra-long-range artillery weapons systems for surface ships that will become part of the fleet after 2015. One of the most promising areas is the creation of electromagnetic rail guns.

Currently, the relevant R&D is headed by the country's naval research department, which is implementing a research and development plan with the further adoption of a new type of weapon.

As part of R&D, BAe Systems delivered in January 2012 to the US Navy's Ground Military Research Center a full-size demonstration model of an electromagnetic rail gun with a kinetic energy of an overclocked projectile at the end of the bore of about 32 MJ. With this cannon, shells weighing 18 kg will fly at speeds of up to 2.5 km / s at a range of 89 to 161 km.

In February 2012, a number of test shots were fired from this sample. The tests will continue until 2017. According to the statement of the representative of the firm "BAe systems", while firing is carried out with projectiles not aerodynamic shape. Their shape is optimized for the most efficient acceleration in the bore.

In 2013, the command of the US Navy signed a contract with this company to develop a new model of a rail gun, which will be able to fire in bursts without overheating the barrel. In 2016, according to his plans, a new rail gun will be tested from the ship.

Based on the analysis of the totality of work carried out in this area, we can conclude that they are currently at the stage of full-scale tests of industrially produced demonstration prototypes, the results of which cannot be predicted. In addition, the developers have yet to finally solve the problems of rate of fire and burst firing, as well as barrel survivability while maintaining the required parameters. In this regard, the technical readiness of the electromagnetic rail guns, created by order of the US Navy, is expected no earlier than 2025.

Accelerating weapon. It is usually understood as a combat weapon that ensures the destruction of targets with a directed beam of charged or neutral particles. In the United States, the main efforts in the period from the early 80s to the mid-90s were focused on studying the possibility of creating such weapons on beams of either electrons (charged particles) or neutral hydrogen atoms (neutral particles) to solve the problems of anti-missile, anti-space and anti-aircraft defense.

Research focused on three areas related to the development of beam technology:
- charged particles controlled by a laser beam for use in the upper atmosphere;
- neutral particles for use in outer space;
- charged particles for use in the lower atmosphere near the Earth's surface.

All large-scale programs in this area were completed in the mid-1990s, mainly due to an insufficiently developed technological base.

Geophysical weapons. Until now, there is no clear and generally accepted definition of geophysical weapons (GFO). In a general sense, it refers to means capable of causing and targeting certain areas of natural phenomena, leading to significant destruction and casualties. The latter are considered such tectonic processes as earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, etc., as well as climatic phenomena: tornadoes, showers, droughts, frosts, destruction of the ozone layer over certain territories, floods, tsunamis, etc.

The creation of HFOs, most likely, is feasible in the future in the field of climate control. Ground-based installations deployed at several points can be used to influence climate in certain areas the globe capable of generating and focusing powerful electromagnetic radiation over the desired area.

The main problems in the creation of HFO are the need for powerful energy sources, means of focusing the effect and calculation models that allow determining the possible effect of impact on the natural environment, as well as side effects and consequences. It is rather difficult to identify the facts of work in this area, since they can easily be disguised as research to ensure the safety of the environment.

A possible example of an existing HFO in a narrower version - a climate weapon - is the HAARP (High Frequency Active Auroral Research Program) program, which is being implemented in the United States at an experimental facility of the same name.

Officially, within the framework of this program, both civilian and military problems were studied. Thus, a complex of ionospheric research was carried out to study the properties and behavior of the ionosphere in the interests of the possible use of the results obtained to improve the operation of both civilian and military communications and detection facilities, the development of air defense / missile defense systems, as well as to detect submarines and underground tomography of the planet's interior.

The HAARP installation is located near n. p. Gakona (Alaska). It includes: an antenna field (180 cross-shaped dipole antennas), an actually flat phased array, a radar with an antenna 20 m in diameter, laser locators, magnetometers, as well as a signal processing and antenna field control center. The power supply of the complex is carried out from a power plant (fuel - gas) and six (reserve) diesel generators.

Experts from the US Navy Research Laboratory reported that on November 12, 2012, they conducted a successful experiment using the HAARP installation. A stream of powerful microwave radiation was directed into the ionosphere, which at an altitude of 170 km created a relatively stable plasma cloud. The glow discharge lasted for about 1 h. For the first time, it was possible to achieve a record density of 9x10 5 electrons per 1 cm 3. Experts of this laboratory announced that experiments on creating plasma clouds in the upper atmosphere using the HAARP installation will subsequently continue with the task of making the formed plasma cloud denser and more stable.

There are two more stations in the United States - one in Puerto Rico (near the Arecibo Observatory) and the other, known as HIPAS (High Power Auroral Stimulation), in Alaska near Fairbanks. Both have active and passive elements similar to HAARP.

In Europe (in particular, in Norway), two complexes for the study of the ionosphere are also installed: the more powerful radar EISCAT (European Incoherent Scatter radar site) is located near the city of Tromsø, the less powerful SPEAR (Space Plasma Exploration by Active Radar) - on the Svalbard archipelago ...

Acoustic weapon- one of the types of ONPP, based on the use of directional radiation of powerful acoustic vibrations. Samples of such weapons already exist and have been tested in real conditions.

Thus, the LRAD (Long Range Acoustic Device) installation was developed in 2000 to protect surface ships and vessels from attacks by terrorists and pirates. Due to the fact that there are practically no reflective obstacles in the sea, it is completely safe for the ship's crew. LRAD uses low-frequency sound of high power at low frequencies up to 150 dB (for comparison, the sound level of a jet plane is 120 dB, pain threshold is 125 dB, lethal is 175 dB), so it has a very harsh effect on the organs of the human hearing aid.

This installation was first successfully deployed in late 2005, when Somali pirate boats attacked the cruise ship Seaburn Spirit. However, when trying to get on board the ship, the terrorists began to throw down their weapons and cover their ears with their hands, trying to escape from the terrible pain that had come from nowhere.

The development of the LRAD system was initially carried out to ensure secrecy at objects of particular importance, but after the successful application of the acoustic installation, a proposal was made to use it on all large surface ships.

When creating the LRAD shipborne installation, the developments of the American Technology company were used, which produces:
- mobile units LRAD with a volume level of up to 130 dB for installation on armored personnel carriers and jeeps;
- hand-held LRAD units, which resemble a megaphone in design, with a sound power of up to 120 dB, which are safe to use even in urban conditions due to their fast dissipation - after 20-30 m, the reflected sound loses most of its power.

A mobile version of an acoustic weapon has also been developed for US police forces. Taking into account their weight and size characteristics, these vehicles can be placed on any vehicle and not only. This non-lethal weapon was used about a dozen times by the American police to disperse demonstrations. Although acoustic weapons are "humane", their use with prolonged exposure can be fatal.

Israel used a similar experience to create the Tsahak system, which was successfully tested during demonstrations in Jerusalem. There were also reports of the use of these weapons in the Gaza Strip.

Acoustic devices were also used to disperse anti-government demonstrations in Georgia in 2007. As a result of the actions of the police, 508 people were forced to seek medical help.

The main characteristics of the acoustic installation LRAD "Sound Cannon": weight 20 kg; diameter 83 cm; sector of sound wave propagation up to 30 °; power can reach (LRAD 2000X) up to 162 dB; audibility - 9 km; coverage area of ​​about 100 m (in forced mode up to 300 m); zone of critical organ damage up to 15 m.
There are also projects of sound pistols, however, due to design flaws and large dimensions, as well as due to the possibility of accidental impact on the owner, they were not launched into mass production.

Gene weapon. A possible type of weapon capable of damaging the genetic (hereditary) apparatus of people. It is assumed that current beginning gene weapons can be artificially created strains of bacteria and viruses, modified by technology genetic engineering and invading the chromosome of cells containing DNA, as well as chemical mutagens. Such exposure can lead to serious diseases and their hereditary transmission.

According to data published in the open Western press, Israel has been actively working for several years on the creation of a genetic weapon (the so-called ethnic bomb) that could strike only Arabs, but not Jews. In doing so, scientists use medical advances in identifying the distinctive genes that some Arabs possess in order to then create genetically modified bacteria or viruses. Attempts are being made to use the ability of viruses and a number of bacteria to change DNA inside the cells of their residence. Israeli scientists also design deadly microorganisms that attack only carriers of specific genes.

The programs are carried out at the Nes Tziyona Biological Institute, Israel's main research center. An anonymous employee of the center said that the task at hand was extremely difficult, since both Arabs and Jews were of Semitic origin. However, according to this expert, "we have succeeded in identifying the specific characteristics of the genetic profile of some Arab communities, especially in people from Iraq." The disease can be spread by spraying microorganisms in the air or infecting plumbing systems.

In general, with the existing variety of research carried out in the United States and other countries within the framework of medical or biological genetic engineering programs, it is difficult to isolate and verify (especially according to information appearing in open information sources) works related to the creation of genetic weapons.