China publicly unveils its most devastating ‘non-lethal’ weapon: it can paralyze entire cities without destroying them
The Asian country now possesses the “graphite bomb,” or “blackout bomb,” which cuts off an area’s power supply.
China’s state television has released a video showcasing a new weapon known as the “graphite bomb”—a device launched from a ground vehicle that disperses multiple carbon filaments designed to disable power to transformers and substations. In the footage, the bomb disassembles midair, releasing approximately 90 cylindrical submunitions.
In modern warfare, it is no longer sufficient to simply target enemy forces, inflict casualties, or destroy physical infrastructure. With the graphite bomb—also referred to as the “blackout bomb”—China aims to paralyze critical power systems in key regions.
The carbon cylinders deployed by the weapon bounce upon impact with the ground and ascend again. Once airborne, they multiply and detonate over the designated area. These cylinders are chemically treated to damage transformers and other components of the electrical grid.
According to the South China Morning Post, the bomb has a range of 290 kilometers and a warhead weighing approximately 490 kilograms. “In the future, this weapon will likely be adapted for Chinese cruise missiles, producing devastating effects in wartime,” said Chen Chundi, editor of the semi-official military magazine Modern Ships.
Chen also noted that the graphite bomb is already operational within the Chinese military and may be paired with a wind-corrected munition dispenser—a guidance system that increases accuracy and effectiveness.
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