In the recent news, two U.S. officials have shown symptoms related to a mysterious illness known as Havana Syndrome. According to a report published by the National Academies of Sciences (NAS) in 2020, directed microwave radiation could be a plausible cause of this condition. The increasing trend of cases is regarded as a mass psychogenic illness.
Understanding Mass Psychogenic Illness
Mass psychogenic illness refers to an occurrence where a group syncs in their feeling of being unwell, devoid of any concrete physical or environmental reason. Individuals under this influence may believe they’ve encountered a harmful element such as a virus or a toxin.
About National Academy of Sciences
The National Academy of Sciences (NAS) is a non-profit government organization based in the United States. Established in 1863 through an Act of Congress and endorsed by Abraham Lincoln, NAS provides comprehensive reports on various Science and Technology projects to the government.
The Havana Syndrome: A Closer Look
Towards the end of 2016, a handful of diplomats from the United States and their workers reported unusual symptoms while residing in Havana, Cuba. Experiencing strange physical sensations followed by peculiar sounds, they started falling ill. The United States accused Cuba of executing sonic attacks, a charge Cuba staunchly denied while also refuting knowledge of any such illness. Since then, extensive research has been conducted to identify the underlying cause of the Havana Syndrome, with various plausible causes unearthed. The syndrome manifests symptoms including nausea, severe headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sleep problems, and hearing loss. In more severe cases, individuals may face chronic issues such as vestibular processing and cognitive problems.
Microwave Weapons & Direct Energy Weapon (DEW)
Microwave weapons function as a kind of direct energy weapon, targeting highly concentrated forms of energy like sonic, laser, or microwaves at a given object. They emit electromagnetic radiations that can instigate sensations in the human body. The heat produced by electromagnetic radiation on the water in the human body can cause individuals to experience dizziness and nausea.
Nations with Microwave Weapons
Several countries are speculated to have developed these weapons to target both humans and electronic systems. China unveiled its microwave weapon, named Poly WB-1, at an air show in 2014. Similarly, the United States has developed a prototype microwave-style weapon known as the “Active Denial System”, a first-ever non-lethal, directed-energy, counter-personnel system having extended range surpassing currently fielded non-lethal weapons.
India’s Strategy to Develop Directed Energy Weapons
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) of India recently announced its plans to formulate Directed Energy Weapons (DEWs) using high-energy lasers and microwaves. The development of DEWs holds significant importance considering India’s deteriorating security environment and strained relations with China.
Concerns Surrounding These Weapons
These weapons pose a major concern because they have the potential to harm both machines and human beings. They can inflict long-term damage without a trace on the human body.
Last Modified: February 13, 2024