The British Ministry of Defense has quietly but effectively taken intelligence to a new level — with the help of high-altitude balloons, which now hover in the stratosphere like spies on a leash. These huge unmanned balloons have been successfully tested as part of the secret AETHER project, and now they look like a real alternative to expensive satellites and spy planes.
What are the cool things about these "balloon buns"? Firstly, they fly very high — from 18 to 24 kilometers. For comparison, ordinary passenger liners fly at an altitude of about 10-12 km. That is, these balloons are above the clouds, outside the range of most air defenses and almost like in orbit, but without a rocket launch and for a penny.
Secondly, they can stay in the air for longer than a week, traveling more than 3,000 kilometers without landing. There are cameras, radars, sensors and communication systems on board. Their task is to constantly monitor the territory: monitor the movement of troops, control borders, monitor sea routes, or even assist in humanitarian missions.
And most importantly, the AETHER project relies on cheap and durable platforms. Balloons are many times cheaper than satellites or reconnaissance aircraft, and they can be quickly launched and reconfigured for a specific task.
This is especially important against the background of growing threats in Europe and the Middle East. Balloons can be part of the early warning system, complementing the satellite constellation and drones. And yes, it sounds like something from the 19th century, but in the 21st century they are equipped with the latest technology.
So while everyone is looking to the sky in search of drones, the British have put up quiet, smart and persistent balloons that see everything and don't bother anyone.
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