China’s state television has disclosed the existence of a new ‘graphite bomb,’ which has the potential to create extensive power outages. This advanced weaponry, according to a report by the South China Morning Post, can cause a complete loss of electricity within a 10,000 square meter radius or incapacitate entire power stations. The weapon’s capabilities were illustrated through an animation released by China’s CCTV, depicting a missile launch from a ground-based launcher and subsequent release of 90 submunitions. These submunitions are designed to bounce across the target area before detonating, creating a cloud of graphite particles that short-circuit the electrical systems of power stations and infrastructure. The announcement of this weapon coincides with rising global tensions, particularly concerning China’s potential military actions against Taiwan, and its continued military collaboration with Russia during its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This collaboration has enabled Russia to bypass Western sanctions, becoming a leading supplier of dual-use goods that support the Russian defense industry.
Graphite bombs, also referred to as ‘blackout bombs’ or ‘soft bombs,’ operate by dispersing a dense cloud of graphite particles over a target area. These particles are highly conductive, leading to short-circuits in electrical systems, thereby causing power outages. According to the International Physicians for the Prevention of Nuclear War, the targeting of critical electrical infrastructure has severe consequences on civilian life, as it can disrupt hospitals, public transport, and essential services. The use of these bombs has historical precedents, with NATO employing them during the 1999 Kosovo war to target Serbian power plants, resulting in extensive power cuts across the country. Similarly, the United States deployed graphite bombs during the 1991 Gulf War, targeting Iraqi power distribution facilities and causing prolonged blackouts. However, the effects of such attacks extend beyond military targets, often impacting civilian populations and potentially leading to casualties due to compromised essential services.
While China’s graphite bomb seems to have a different deployment mechanism compared to the U.S. version, there are few details available regarding the exact functioning of China’s weapon. The U.S. version, the BLU-114/B, employs spools of carbon-fiber wire that disperse into fine particles upon contact with high voltage. In contrast, the CCTV video suggests that China’s bomb releases submunitions that self-detonate, creating a cloud of graphite particles. Despite the differences in deployment, the strategic implications of these weapons are evident, as their use could significantly impact both military and civilian systems. Additionally, other nations, such as South Korea, have developed their own graphite bombs, highlighting the global interest in and development of this type of weaponry for potential use in conflicts.
As China continues to develop and deploy advanced weaponry, the implications for global security and international relations are significant. The use of such weapons raises ethical and strategic questions about the impact on civilian populations and the broader consequences of targeting critical infrastructure. International responses to these developments will likely involve diplomatic efforts, arms control discussions, and the potential for further military cooperation or conflict among nations. The ongoing tensions and strategic posturing by various nations underscore the complex landscape of international relations and the evolving nature of modern warfare.