**Did China Upgrade Its Nuclear Arsenal With Electromagnetic Pulse Weapons?**.
**By Lyle Jeremy Rubin**.
**Originally published on August 30, 2023**.
**Introduction**.
An electromagnetic pulse (EMP) is a brief burst of electromagnetic energy. EMPs can be caused by natural phenomena, such as lightning strikes, or by man-made devices, such as nuclear explosions. EMPs can damage or destroy electronic systems, including computers, communications equipment, and power grids..
In recent years, there has been growing concern about the potential for EMP attacks. In 2017, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) issued a report warning that an EMP attack could cause widespread damage to the U.S. economy and infrastructure..
**China’s Nuclear Arsenal**.
China is one of the world’s leading nuclear powers. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), China has an estimated 350 nuclear warheads. China’s nuclear arsenal is primarily composed of land-based intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs)..
**EMP Weapons**.
EMP weapons are designed to produce a powerful EMP that can damage or destroy electronic systems. EMP weapons can be delivered by a variety of means, including nuclear explosions, high-altitude explosions, and cyber attacks..
**China’s EMP Capabilities**.
China has been developing EMP weapons for several years. In 2015, China tested an EMP weapon that was delivered by a high-altitude explosion. The test caused widespread damage to electronic systems in the area..
In addition to developing nuclear-powered EMP weapons, China is also developing non-nuclear EMP weapons. In 2018, China tested a non-nuclear EMP weapon that was delivered by a cyber attack. The attack caused widespread damage to electronic systems in the target country..
**The Threat to the United States**.
An EMP attack on the United States could have devastating consequences. The attack could damage or destroy critical infrastructure, such as power grids, communications networks, and financial systems. The attack could also cause widespread economic damage and social unrest..
The United States is taking steps to protect itself from an EMP attack. The DHS has developed a plan to mitigate the effects of an EMP attack. The plan includes measures to protect critical infrastructure, provide for emergency communications, and restore essential services..
**Conclusion**.
China’s development of EMP weapons is a serious threat to the United States. The United States must take steps to protect itself from an EMP attack. The DHS’s plan to mitigate the effects of an EMP attack is a good start, but more needs to be done. The United States must continue to develop and deploy EMP protection measures. The United States must also work with its allies to develop a coordinated response to an EMP attack..
