The U.S. Army is exploring the use of high-altitude balloons to launch drone swarms behind enemy lines. These balloons could also collect intelligence, serve as communications relays, and deploy sensors to monitor enemy activity. The Army’s Program Executive Office for Intelligence, Electronic Warfare, and Sensors has presented a briefing on this concept, which is part of a larger Multi-Domain Sensing System. The balloons would fill the gap between ground-based and aerial ISR and communications platforms and space-based systems. The use of balloons offers advantages in terms of cost, flexibility, and survivability compared to satellites or traditional aircraft.
| Signal | Change | 10y horizon | Driving force |
|---|---|---|---|
| Army wants to launch drone swarms from high-altitude balloons | From ground-based to high-altitude aerial drone deployment | Increased use of high-altitude balloons for military operations | Enhanced surveillance capabilities and cost-effectiveness |