China Tests New Non-Nuclear Hydrogen Bomb

Chinese researchers from the China State Shipbuilding Corporation’s 705 Research Institute have developed and tested a new non-nuclear hydrogen-based explosive device that produces a sustained fireball exceeding 1,000°C for more than two seconds, about 15 times longer than a TNT explosion. The 2-kg bomb uses magnesium hydride to release hydrogen gas upon detonation, generating intense heat with only about 40% of TNT's blast force. Its extended thermal effect is capable of melting metal and enabling uniform destruction or targeting high-value assets. Scientists highlight the device’s precise controllability and ability to cover wide areas with intense, napalm-like heat, drawing comparisons to thermobaric weapons. While specific deployment plans have not been disclosed, the device could be used in advanced weaponry and high-energy propulsion systems. The development has raised concerns due to its novel mechanism and military potential, although it does not involve nuclear materials.