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The Star
25-04-2025
- Science
- The Star
China unveils drone-mounted quantum device for submarine detection in South China Sea
As US-China tensions simmer over submarine operations in the South China Sea, Chinese space scientists have unveiled a breakthrough in magnetic detection technology that could tip the balance in underwater warfare. A drone-mounted quantum sensor system, tested successfully in offshore trials, achieved picotesla precision to track magnetic anomaly and map seabed resources while overcoming some severe practical limitations of existing devices, researchers disclosed in a peer-reviewed paper. With such sensitivity, People's Liberation Army's (PLA) anti-submarine forces cannot only pinpoint a submarine but also catch the tail waves it generates, according to some previous studies. Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team. Traditional optically pumped magnetometers (OPMs) – widely used in submarine detection – face critical 'blind zones' in low-latitude regions like the South China Sea, where Earth's magnetic field runs nearly parallel to the surface. When the sensor's optical axis aligns too closely with magnetic field lines, signals weaken dramatically. Enter the Coherent Population Trapping (CPT) atomic magnetometer. Leveraging quantum interference effects in rubidium atoms, the device exploits Zeeman splitting – energy level shifts caused by magnetic fields – to generate seven microwave resonance signals. These frequencies correlate linearly with magnetic field strength, enabling omnidirectional detection regardless of orientation, according to the researchers. With a sensitivity of 8pT by design – on par with Canada's MAD-XR system used by Nato allies – the Chinese system eliminates blind zones while cutting costs and complexity. 'The MAD-XR is too sophisticated and expensive, limiting the scope of practical applications in real life,' said the team led by Wang Xuefeng, researcher with the Quantum Engineering Research Centre, China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC). The towed system developed by Wang and his colleagues, described in a paper published in the Chinese Journal of Scientific Instrument on April 16, pairs the CPT sensor with a rotor drone via a 20-metre (65.6ft) cable to minimise electromagnetic interference from the aircraft. A fluxgate magnetometer corrects heading errors, while GPS and ground stations process data using algorithms that suppress noise, compensate for diurnal geomagnetic shifts, and generate high-resolution anomaly maps. During trials off Weihai, Shandong province, the drone surveyed a 400 by 300-metre grid with 34 crossover points. Raw data showed 2.517 nanotesla (nT) accuracy, refined to 0.849 nT after error correction – a threefold improvement. Crucially, two independent surveys achieved a 99.8 per cent correlation in magnetic anomaly maps, with a root mean square error (RMSE) of just 1.149 nT, 'demonstrating outstanding stability in real life tests', Wang's team added. This is not just about submarines, according to the researchers. At picotesla-level sensitivity, it can map oil reservoirs, archaeological wrecks, and tectonic shifts. Yet defence applications loom large. Unlike the MAD-XR – which uses multiple probes to avoid blind spots at high expense – the single-probe Chinese system costs just a fraction, while outperforming in low-latitude waters, according to the researchers. But battlefield readiness requires more testing under extreme conditions, which are absent from the published trials. MAD-XR has been proven by years of operational data from US, Japan and a few other countries, according to openly available information. The CASC is China's largest aerospace defence contractor. Beijing Institute of Aerospace Control Devices also took part in the project. Scientists in China and some other countries are developing other types of high-performance submarine detectors. The Spin-Exchange Relaxation-Free (SERF) detector, for instance, can reportedly boost sensitivity by 1,000 times to femtotesla range. More from South China Morning Post: For the latest news from the South China Morning Post download our mobile app. Copyright 2025.
Economic Times
22-04-2025
- Science
- Economic Times
China's new weapon shocks the world: Is this Hydrogen bomb a game-changer for modern warfare?
A revolutionary weapon Test results and military applications Live Events The role of Magnesium Hydride China's military modernisation and clean energy focus (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel Chinese researchers have successfully detonated a new hydrogen-based explosive device, signalling a leap in the country's military capabilities. This breakthrough, described as a non-nuclear hydrogen bomb , was developed by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), with the device tested in a field experiment. Unlike traditional nuclear bombs, it harnesses a magnesium-based solid-state hydrogen storage material that ignites to create a sustained fireball, capable of producing heat 15 times longer than a TNT device, weighing just 2 kilograms, has a unique explosive mechanism. Instead of using nuclear materials, it relies on magnesium hydride, which stores hydrogen at a much higher density than conventional pressurised tanks. When detonated by a standard explosive, the magnesium hydride undergoes rapid thermal decomposition, releasing hydrogen gas mixes with air and ignites, creating a blazing fireball that can burn at temperatures exceeding 1,000°C. This intense heat persists for over two seconds, making the device far more effective in terms of sustained damage than conventional explosives.'Hydrogen gas explosions ignite with minimal ignition energy, have a broad explosion range, and unleash flames that race outward rapidly,' said Wang Xuefeng, a lead researcher at the CSSC. The sustained heat can melt materials like aluminium alloys, offering a strategic advantage in targeting specific military assets or test, conducted under controlled conditions, showed that the device could generate peak overpressure of 428.43 kilopascals at two meters, around 40% of TNT's blast force, but with far more significant heat damage. The bomb's unique feature is its ability to create a self-feeding combustion loop, which means it can continue producing intense heat after initial detonation, devastating large weapon's potential military applications are wide-ranging: from denying the enemy access to strategic routes by incinerating roads to precisely targeting critical infrastructure such as power stations or communication weapon is not only a significant military advancement but also an example of China's growing expertise in energy-based weaponry. The bomb's sustained heat and ability to target specific points, without indiscriminately affecting a broad area, allow the PLA (People's Liberation Army) to carry out precision strikes on high-value recently, magnesium hydride was only produced in small quantities, due to its highly reactive nature. However, China has invested heavily in scaling up its production capabilities. A new facility in Shaanxi province is now able to produce 150 tonnes annually, using a novel "one-pot synthesis" method developed by the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics. This breakthrough not only makes the production of magnesium hydride safer but also more cost-effective, which is a crucial factor in mass production for military is exploring additional uses for magnesium hydride, including as a power source for submarine fuel cells and long-endurance drones. The material's potential as an energy source is expanding beyond explosives, indicating that China's military strategy includes integrating clean energy solutions into its test comes amid China's broader military modernisation efforts, which are increasingly incorporating clean energy technologies. The country has been upgrading its fleet of warships with electric propulsion systems, including advanced vessels like the Type 055 Renhai-class cruisers. Additionally, China has made significant strides in aerospace with the development of eco-friendly propulsion technologies. In 2023, it launched the world's first methane-powered rocket to reach orbit, a feat that underscores its ambition to lead in sustainable military timing of this development is significant, as tensions rise between China and Taiwan. Beijing has ramped up its military presence around Taiwan, viewing any external support for the island as a direct challenge to its sovereignty. The increased military activity follows rising US arms sales to Taiwan and high-profile visits by American officials. This month, China conducted large-scale drills, including live fire exercises, further heightening tensions in the has made it clear that it sees any intervention in Taiwan's affairs as interference in its internal matters, and has warned the US against providing military aid to Taiwan. Despite these warnings, the US has reaffirmed its commitment to Taiwan, pledging continued support and engaging in joint military exercises with regional allies.
Time of India
21-04-2025
- Science
- Time of India
China's new weapon shocks the world: Is this Hydrogen bomb a game-changer for modern warfare?
Chinese researchers have successfully detonated a new hydrogen-based explosive device, signalling a leap in the country's military capabilities. This breakthrough, described as a non-nuclear hydrogen bomb , was developed by the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), with the device tested in a field experiment. Unlike traditional nuclear bombs, it harnesses a magnesium-based solid-state hydrogen storage material that ignites to create a sustained fireball, capable of producing heat 15 times longer than a TNT explosion. A revolutionary weapon The device, weighing just 2 kilograms, has a unique explosive mechanism. Instead of using nuclear materials, it relies on magnesium hydride, which stores hydrogen at a much higher density than conventional pressurised tanks. When detonated by a standard explosive, the magnesium hydride undergoes rapid thermal decomposition, releasing hydrogen gas. The gas mixes with air and ignites, creating a blazing fireball that can burn at temperatures exceeding 1,000°C. This intense heat persists for over two seconds, making the device far more effective in terms of sustained damage than conventional explosives. 'Hydrogen gas explosions ignite with minimal ignition energy, have a broad explosion range, and unleash flames that race outward rapidly,' said Wang Xuefeng, a lead researcher at the CSSC. The sustained heat can melt materials like aluminium alloys, offering a strategic advantage in targeting specific military assets or infrastructure. Test results and military applications The test, conducted under controlled conditions, showed that the device could generate peak overpressure of 428.43 kilopascals at two meters, around 40% of TNT's blast force, but with far more significant heat damage. The bomb's unique feature is its ability to create a self-feeding combustion loop, which means it can continue producing intense heat after initial detonation, devastating large areas. Live Events The weapon's potential military applications are wide-ranging: from denying the enemy access to strategic routes by incinerating roads to precisely targeting critical infrastructure such as power stations or communication hubs. This weapon is not only a significant military advancement but also an example of China's growing expertise in energy-based weaponry. The bomb's sustained heat and ability to target specific points, without indiscriminately affecting a broad area, allow the PLA (People's Liberation Army) to carry out precision strikes on high-value targets. The role of Magnesium Hydride Until recently, magnesium hydride was only produced in small quantities, due to its highly reactive nature. However, China has invested heavily in scaling up its production capabilities. A new facility in Shaanxi province is now able to produce 150 tonnes annually, using a novel "one-pot synthesis" method developed by the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics. This breakthrough not only makes the production of magnesium hydride safer but also more cost-effective, which is a crucial factor in mass production for military applications. China is exploring additional uses for magnesium hydride, including as a power source for submarine fuel cells and long-endurance drones. The material's potential as an energy source is expanding beyond explosives, indicating that China's military strategy includes integrating clean energy solutions into its weaponry. China's military modernisation and clean energy focus This test comes amid China's broader military modernisation efforts, which are increasingly incorporating clean energy technologies. The country has been upgrading its fleet of warships with electric propulsion systems, including advanced vessels like the Type 055 Renhai-class cruisers. Additionally, China has made significant strides in aerospace with the development of eco-friendly propulsion technologies. In 2023, it launched the world's first methane-powered rocket to reach orbit, a feat that underscores its ambition to lead in sustainable military technology. The timing of this development is significant, as tensions rise between China and Taiwan. Beijing has ramped up its military presence around Taiwan, viewing any external support for the island as a direct challenge to its sovereignty. The increased military activity follows rising US arms sales to Taiwan and high-profile visits by American officials. This month, China conducted large-scale drills, including live fire exercises, further heightening tensions in the region. China has made it clear that it sees any intervention in Taiwan's affairs as interference in its internal matters, and has warned the US against providing military aid to Taiwan. Despite these warnings, the US has reaffirmed its commitment to Taiwan, pledging continued support and engaging in joint military exercises with regional allies.
Russia Today
21-04-2025
- Science
- Russia Today
China detonates non-nuclear hydrogen bomb
Chinese researchers have successfully tested a non-nuclear hydrogen bomb that created a sustained fireball, far outperforming traditional explosives, the South China Morning Post has reported. In an article on Sunday, the newspaper cited the researchers' study published last month in the Chinese-language Journal of Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles and Guidance. According to the report, a team from the China State Shipbuilding Corporation's (CSSC) 705 Research Institute — a key player in underwater weapon systems — developed a 2kg (4.4lbs) bomb primarily composed of magnesium hydride, with conventional explosives serving as the catalyst. In a field test, the device reportedly generated a fireball with temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius (1,832 degrees Fahrenheit) that lasted for more than two seconds, which is "15 times longer" than what an "equivalent TNT blast" is capable of producing. In the reaction, magnesium hydride, a compound originally developed as an efficient fuel, rapidly releases stored hydrogen gas, resulting in a sustained inferno. The novel explosive device's destructive power thus is said to lie not in its blast pressure, but rather in the ability to generate extreme heat. The South China Morning Post quoted CSSC research scientist Wang Xuefeng as explaining that its properties also allow for 'precise control over blast intensity, easily achieving uniform destruction of targets across vast areas.' If fully developed, the method could presumably yield a weapon similar to a thermobaric device – ideal for annihilating defensive structures and armored vehicles. While the production of magnesium hydride used to be mostly small-scale and rather complicated, China has recently developed a cheaper and safer production method and built a plant capable of producing 150 tons of the compound per year.
Russia Today
20-04-2025
- Science
- Russia Today
China detonates huge non-nuclear hydrogen bomb — media
Chinese researchers have successfully tested a non-nuclear hydrogen bomb that created a sustained fireball, far outperforming traditional explosives, the South China Morning Post has reported. In an article on Sunday, the newspaper cited the researchers' study published last month in the Chinese-language Journal of Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles and Guidance. According to the report, a team from the China State Shipbuilding Corporation's (CSSC) 705 Research Institute — a key player in underwater weapon systems — developed a 2kg (4.4lbs) bomb primarily composed of magnesium hydride, with conventional explosives serving as the catalyst. In a field test, the device reportedly generated a fireball with temperatures exceeding 1,000 degrees Celsius (1,832 degrees Fahrenheit) that lasted for more than two seconds, which is considerably longer than what an equivalent TNT blast is capable of producing. In the reaction, magnesium hydride, a compound originally developed as an efficient fuel, rapidly releases stored hydrogen gas, resulting in a sustained inferno. The novel explosive device's destructive power thus is said to lie not in its blast pressure, but rather in the ability to generate extreme heat. The South China Morning Post quoted CSSC research scientist Wang Xuefeng as explaining that its properties also allow for 'precise control over blast intensity, easily achieving uniform destruction of targets across vast areas.' If fully developed, the method could presumably yield a weapon similar to napalm or a thermobaric device – ideal for annihilating defensive structures and armored vehicles. While the production of magnesium hydride used to be mostly small-scale and rather complicated, China has recently developed a cheaper and safer production method and built a plant capable of producing 150 tons of the compound per year.
