Scientists from the Chinese military have created a cutting-edge “smart shell” capable of executing a pinpoint strike on a target at hypersonic velocities. Tailored for kinetic energy weaponry, the projectile is propelled by an electromagnetic gun, achieving an impressive speed of Mach 7 (seven times the speed of sound), as reported by the South China Morning Post. Utilizing BeiDou satellite navigation systems, it can dynamically adjust its flight trajectory and maintain remarkable precision with an error margin of less than 15 meters (49 feet) until reaching its designated destination.
The weapon could be a game-changer on the battlefield because it can reduce cost while maintaining missiles’ long-range and precision capabilities. But a key hurdle has been overcoming the issue of electromagnetic fields generated during launch, which can damage delicate electronic components such as microchips and antennae.
Electromagnetic launch weapons use potent electromagnets to accelerate projectiles, but they generate a significant electromagnetic field during launch, which can damage delicate electronic components, such as microchips and antennas. Scientists and engineers have tried to overcome this problem for years, but the latest development could mark a breakthrough. According to the SCMP, the bright shell’ can bypass this issue by creating an internal electromagnetic shield that is resistant to electronic signals but can still receive and transmit the BeiDou navigation signal.
Another key challenge was ensuring the bright shell remained stable during flight through varying air densities. Using a cost-effective and mass-produced aerogel as a thermal barrier, the weapon can achieve this. Its navigation software posed another problem, however. As the shell whirls and sways erratically during its flight, it can be hard to maintain a steady course.
But despite the apparent progress, US officials are still skeptical about China’s claims. They point to several issues with the weapon, including the fact that papers published by Chinese military scientists in open academic journals undergo rigorous security checks. They also argue that the development of the intelligent shell is part of a more significant effort by Beijing to gain a technological advantage over the United States.
The development of the ‘ smart shell’ is just the latest in a series of advances made by China in electromagnetic weapons. Last month, China revealed that it had perfected a railgun capable of firing shells at up to 2,200mph. The railgun can fire at ten rounds per second, making it 50 percent faster than traditional guns, and can sustain accuracy for more than 20 seconds. It may give China a strategic advantage over its naval rivals in the long run. This, in turn, could threaten America’s naval supremacy. But if the American military isn’t careful, it might be caught off guard by a rising China that is not afraid to start a war. It is 100% sure it can win. And it is a country that, like all great empires, does not want to lose.
