[independentmind]

Another weapon discussed was a system that uses microwave beams to heat the water in human skin in the same way as a microwave oven cooks a meal.

Can someone point out a meaningful distinction between biological and chemical weapons and the above?

[Senator Pardek]

Yes, I can. It's being specifically designed to be able to be used in a non-lethal fashion.

[nanny]

[Can someone point out a meaningful distinction between biological and chemical weapons and the above?]

I don't see any. If you plan to blind me or cook me - save yourself some money and just shoot me. By the way a microwave doesn't necessarily cook the from the outside in (at least mine doesn't) The inside is cooking at the same time the outside is.

[Myrddin]

Bioweapons are generally living viruses and bacteria. Many can continue to multiply and spread well beyond the intended target population. Chemical weapons are generally poisons whose targets are in a limited area. The chemicals do not "reproduce" in a "contagious" fashion, but the effects may linger in an area for periods of hours to days. The microwave weapon is directed at a specified target. It hits the target and ceases to have additional effect when the device is turned off. Troops attending to a microwaved soldier will not be poisoned or infected with a disease.

[Darksheare]

Does it kill thousands of people indiscriminately? No? then it isn't a WOMD.