Stop an Incoming Nuke: EMP Effect, Other Options

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the effectiveness of using an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) to stop an incoming nuclear missile. It is established that a well-designed nuclear warhead, which relies on neutrons for its reaction, cannot be disabled by an EMP due to the lack of electrical charge in neutrons. The most viable method to neutralize a nuclear threat is to deflect the missile using kinetic force, ensuring it misses its target and detonates safely in the atmosphere. The conversation highlights the limitations of EMPs and emphasizes the importance of understanding nuclear weapon design.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of nuclear weapon mechanics
  • Knowledge of electromagnetic pulse (EMP) effects
  • Familiarity with missile defense systems
  • Basic physics principles, particularly Newton's laws of motion
NEXT STEPS
  • Research contemporary nuclear warhead design and detonation mechanisms
  • Explore missile defense technologies and their operational principles
  • Learn about the physics of kinetic interceptors and their effectiveness
  • Investigate the implications of EMP attacks on modern military systems
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for military strategists, defense technology researchers, and individuals interested in nuclear security and missile defense systems.

yoyopizza
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Could you stop an incoming nuke with an emp? Would it disable the nuke, or just detonate? Or even have no effect, what would happen? Is there any other way you might stop an incoming nuke?
 
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A well thought out nuke could not be stopped by emp. Neutrons run it which are not electfically charged. secondly the best way is to shoot something at to deflect it F=ma, so that it mises and blows up in the atmosphere. THis is very easily done makes nukes almost not worth it.
 
AkInfinity said:
A well thought out nuke could not be stopped by emp. Neutrons run it which are not electfically charged.

While true that neutrons are what cause the reaction, one needs a mechanism of bringing the nuclear matter to criticality at the appropriate time (i.e. when to blow up the bomb). I'm not sure how contemporary nuclear warheads are designed, but the detonators seem to have an electrical component to them and hence at least have the potential to be disarmed (or prematurely activated) by a large electromagnetic disturbance.
 
Thread closed for review for obvious reasons...EDIT -- thread will remain closed, and will be deleted in a couple of days. Speculation about nuclear weapon design is just that, speculation, which is against the PF rules.
 
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