Ukrainian weather balloons: Low‑cost spy gadgets in the sky

Defense Romania highlights that Ukrainians employ weather balloons differently. These balloons are typically used for carrying weather monitoring instruments to an altitude of about 23 miles for civil applications. These balloons are equipped with explosive charges and radio command systems, enabling them to drop onto designated targets from high altitudes. Some are also fitted with systems capable of recording radar emissions from anti-aircraft missile systems, detecting even the Russian S-400 air defense system from approximately 155 miles away.

Additionally, it's important to mention the smaller balloons produced by the Ukrainian company Aerobavovna, which are frequently seen on the battlefield. These devices are utilized for reconnaissance, signal retransmission, or drone control. The cost of the simplest models is around $3,000. These models can carry payloads of about 11 pounds and operate at altitudes over 1,640 feet without requiring electrical power or fuel, which is necessary for more advanced Aerobavovna aerostats.

Aerobavovna asserts that its most basic aerostats are three times cheaper than commercial drones, offering an economical alternative. Preparing such a balloon involves a process that takes 15 minutes and a team of 2-3 people. Filled with helium, these balloons can stay airborne for days to weeks. Notably, a helium-filled aerostat is not pressurized and gradually loses gas and altitude. Hence, if compromised (excluding direct, destructive impacts), it gently descends to the ground, which takes about three hours, minimizing the risk of damaging the carried cargo.