How Japan’s Railgun Works and Its Implications

The railgun operates on electricity, generating a powerful electrical surge between two rails. This surge propels a projectile at speeds six times faster than sound, enabling it to strike targets with precision. This technology is not based on gunpowder or explosives. The recent sea trials represent the first instance of the railgun successfully hitting a ship. Experts believe this weapon could become a countermeasure to hypersonic missiles in the future. China and the U.S. have also explored similar technologies.