I think the commentator Song Zhongping is making a wrong explanation of the application of EM rocket. Rocket does not breath air, it has its own oxidizer mixed in the chemical charge. It works equally efficient 4000 meters above sea level as it works at 0 meters.
The application is IMO to extend the range of the same rocket besides other possible advantages, or reduce the weight and size of the rocket by replacing part of the chemical charge while retaining the same range. This can significantly reduce the logistic burden on the high altitude. Every shell has to be carried by trucks and aircraft with air breathing engines, reducing the weight in half means doubling the number of aminations delivered.
The problem of this approach is that, the EM launcher need electricity which is most likely generated by mobile diesel generator which breath air, the problem remains. Only way to eliminate that demand is Solar and Wind power stations, but then no-mobility. To get back mobility, one need battery which is inferior to chemical charges as of today.
So I would say it is a good try, but still far away from being practical to fully replace or meaningfully substitute conventional rocket, until battery technology advanced to a new level.
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