Quantum radar seeks to use accelerated electrons to detect and track stealth aircraft like B-2 and F-35
HONG KONG – Chinese researchers say they are developing quantum radar that could detect stealth aircraft by creating a small electromagnetic storm. Asia Times reports. Continue reading original article
The Military & Aerospace Electronics take:
8 Sept. 2021 -- This isn’t the first time researchers from China have made big claims about a functional quantum radar, and many experts from other countries contest the very feasibility of such devices.
Conventional radars have a fixed or rotating dish, but the quantum radar design more closely resembles a gun, and accelerates electrons nearly to the speed of light.
Once they pass through a winding tube exposed to strong magnetic fields, the electrons could generate a vortex of microwaves that swirl forward like a horizontal tornado. The novel quantum radar system would outclass any radar system of the past, but that’s still a big if. Still, the potential benefits are worth the hard work. If the system really works, it could become a significant advantage.
Related: The U.S and China are in a quantum physics arms race that will transform warfare
John Keller, chief editor
Military & Aerospace Electronics