EMP security

Our enemies could use nuclear weapons to create EMP attack

While the threat of aggression by North Korea or the Islamic State lingers, the basic existence of our civilization is not threatened as much as it has been in prior generations.

During the Cold War the Soviet Union was poised to launch thousands of nuclear weapons at a moment’s notice toward our homeland and our allies. Combined with our massive retaliation, this could have spelled the end of modern life. We now know that several close calls nearly resulted in this unthinkable destruction of human civilization.

While we are living in a time of relative peace, it is the job of the government to assess various threats and make plans to prepare for them. One potential threat currently being debated is the risk of an attack by a high-altitude electromagnetic pulse (HEMP). In fact, on Jan. 30, the House Homeland Security Committee is going to discuss the risks posed by such an attack. 

Essentially, a HEMP is the use of a nuclear device exploded high above the earth that does not destroy targets and kill people with blast, fire and radiation. Instead, the HEMP attack sends a powerful burst of electromagnetic energy towards its target that has the capability to destroy electrical systems and high technology microcircuits, such as electricity transmission lines. A HEMP attack could take down the electric grid that we all use to power our homes, businesses and nearly every aspect of modern life.