A system for EMNZ metamaterial-based direct antenna modulation. The system includes a signal generator, a metamaterial switch and an antenna. The signal generator may is configured to generate a microwave signal. The metamaterial switch is configured to generate a modulated microwave signal from the microwave signal. The modulated microwave signal is generated by selectively passing the microwave signal through the metamaterial switch. The metamaterial switch includes a first conductive plate and a first loaded conductive plate. The first loaded conductive plate includes a second conductive plate and a first monolayer graphene. The first monolayer graphene includes a first tunable conductivity. The first monolayer graphene is positioned between the first conductive plate and the second conductive plate. An effective permittivity of the metamaterial switch is configured to be adjusted to a predetermined value. The effective permittivity of the metamaterial switch is adjusted responsive to tuning the first tunable conductivity.