The Threat of Terrorism to Power Grids: Effects of Electromagnetic Pulses to the United States

Terrorism’s roots can be traced back to the French Revolution.[1] Since 1789 terrorism has adopted many faces and its reach stretches throughout the world. Amidst the difficulty of defining terrorism, the FBI has given us the following definition, “…the unlawful use of…violence against persons…to intimidate or coerce a government, the civilian population, or any segment thereof, in furtherance of political or social objectives.” (Gaines & Miller, 2013, p. 539).[2] Bombing, hijacking, arson, assault, kidnapping, and hostage-taking are just a few of the attack tactics utilized throughout terrorist organization. However, with continuing advancements in technology nations need to consider possible terror attacks including cyber and electromagnetic pulses (EMP).[3] Throughout this paper threats to power grids, caused by High-Altitude EMPS (HEMP), in the United States and abroad will be investigated. Ultimately the United States’ preparedness and vulnerabilities will be discussed throughout the following pages