Nonlinear, time‐dependent calculations have been carried out for closed‐cavity gyrotron oscillations using a strongly modulated electron beam. It is found that radiation pulses of width 200 ps can be generated with carrier frequency of 18 GHz at over 10% efficiency. The gyrotron features a tapered wall radius to allow an equidistant spectrum of cavity modes. Evidence of a disruption in locking is found at electron beam currents several times the start oscillation value. ©1995 American Institute of Physics.