Chinese scientists have announced the successful testing of a new type of explosive device that uses hydrogen but does not contain nuclear components. This development, according to experts, could become the basis for creating high-precision and powerful weapons capable of hitting land, sea and air targets. Information about the tests, published in the peer-reviewed Chinese journal "Journal of Projectiles, Rockets, Missiles and Guidance" and cited by the South China Morning Post, has caused a wide resonance in the global scientific and military community.

The new weapon is based on magnesium hydride, a silvery powder that can store significantly more hydrogen than traditional high-pressure tanks. The material was originally developed for peaceful purposes: transporting hydrogen to regions without access to the power grid to power fuel cells that provide clean electricity and heat. However, during experiments, scientists discovered that when magnesium hydride is activated by conventional explosives, it rapidly decomposes thermally, releasing hydrogen gas. This gas instantly ignites, creating a powerful fireball with a temperature of over a thousand degrees Celsius.

Tests of a two-kilogram bomb conducted by the 705 Research Institute of the China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) showed impressive results. The explosion created a fireball that maintained its intensity for two seconds - 15 times longer than with TNT. This property makes the new weapon especially destructive, since prolonged exposure to high temperatures can cause extensive thermal damage. Scientists note that hydrogen-containing gas explosions require minimal energy for ignition, have a wide range of action and create a flame that spreads quickly, ensuring uniform destruction of targets over large areas.

Experts suggest that the new technology can be adapted to equip unmanned aerial vehicles, missiles and other high-precision weapons systems. The ability to precisely control the intensity of the explosion opens up prospects for creating weapons with a controlled radius of destruction, which makes it potentially universal for various combat scenarios. Some analysts compare the effect of the new device with thermobaric charges, but emphasize the uniqueness of hydrogen technology, which provides a more prolonged and controlled effect.

Some Western experts, commenting on the tests, expressed concern that successful development of hydrogen weapons could change the balance of power in the region. At the same time, Chinese officials emphasize that their developments are aimed at strengthening the country's defense capabilities and do not pose a threat to international stability. Nevertheless, given the potential of the new weapons, many countries are likely to step up their research in similar areas to keep up with technological developments.