Context:
Recently, there has been a noticeable surge in interest in the Havana Syndrome, particularly concerning its occurrence among US diplomats.
Relevance:
Facts for prelims
Key Points on the Havana Syndrome and Microwave Weapons
Havana Syndrome Incident:
- In late 2016, US diplomats and their employees in Havana, Cuba, reported unusual symptoms during their stay.
- Symptoms included odd physical sensations, hearing peculiar sounds, leading to sickness.
- The US accused Cuba of sonic attacks, but Cuba denied any involvement or knowledge of such illness.
Research and Symptoms:
- Multiple institutions have researched the Havana syndrome’s cause.
- Symptoms include nausea, severe headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sleep problems, and hearing loss.
- Some affected individuals experienced chronic issues like vestibular processing and cognitive problems.
Microwave Weapons and DEW:
- Direct Energy Weapons (DEW) are direct energy weapons focusing highly concentrated energy, like sonic, laser, or microwaves, at a target.
- They emit electromagnetic radiations causing sensations in the human body.
- The radiation heats the water in the human body, leading to dizziness and nausea.
Countries with Microwave Weapons:
- Several countries are believed to possess these weapons targeting both humans and electronic systems.
- China showcased its microwave weapon, Poly WB-1, at an air show in 2014.
- The US developed the “Active Denial System,” a prototype microwave-style weapon, described as the first non-lethal, directed-energy, counter-personnel system with an extended range.
India’s Directed Energy Weapons Plans:
- The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) announced plans to develop DEWs using high-energy lasers and microwaves.
- The development is crucial considering India’s deteriorating security environment, especially concerning its relationship with China.
Concerns:
- Microwave weapons pose a threat as they can harm both machines and humans.
- They can inflict long-term damage without leaving visible marks on the human body.
-Source: The Hindu
