Boeing Develops Counter-Electronics Platform

Boeing said it was awarded a $38 million contract April 27 to develop a nonlethal, high-power microwave (HPM) airborne demonstrator for the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory Counter-electronics High power microwave Advanced Missile Project (CHAMP).

The CHAMP Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD) program will be the first to demonstrate a counter-electronics HPM aerial demonstrator, Boeing said. The three-year program includes ground and flight demonstrations that will focus on technology integration and military utility.

Boeing will provide the airborne platform and serve as the system integrator. Ktech Corp., Albuquerque, N.M., will supply the HPM source. Sandia National Laboratories will provide the pulse power system.

“This demonstrator will provide a revolutionary, nonlethal system, allowing the military to neutralize specific targets while minimizing or eliminating collateral damage,” said Keith Coleman, CHAMP program manager for Boeing Phantom Works.