Uncrewed, high-altitude balloons could soon be used by the Armed Forces to enhance national security, following recent trials spearheaded by DE&S.

The balloons, which can operate at altitudes between 60,000 and 80,000 feet above the Earth, can conduct intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, providing additional security to UK interests both at home and abroad.

They may also be used to deliver reliable communication and fast internet connectivity to disaster zones or remote areas, as well as support climate research by providing data for weather forecasting.

This low-cost surveillance and communications capability offers an alternative to traditional solutions, with the ability to travel uninterrupted at extreme altitudes for extended periods without requiring maintenance.

Trials of the balloons were conducted in South Dakota, USA, earlier this year as part of Project Aether, a concept development initiative launched by members of DE&S’ Future Capability and Innovation (FCI) team. The team has since transitioned to become part of UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) under the National Armament Directorate (NAD).

Head of the UK Defence Innovation, Prove and Exploit team, James Gavin, said:
“Defence procurement is making strides in the innovation space, and we are increasingly exploring the art of the possible, pushing boundaries, and scoping new technologies.

“These latest trials have been incredibly fruitful and pave the way for more collaborative working with our allies to develop capabilities that will benefit our Armed Forces.”

The trials were led by UK company Voltitude in partnership with Landguard Systems (UK) and Aerostar (US), using UK-developed technology. With a current ISR payload capacity of up to 3kg, the test balloons can operate continuously for over five days. The findings from these trials will now be used to build upon this significant advancement in stratospheric surveillance, exploring whether the balloons can carry heavier payloads for longer durations, with the aim of enabling missions lasting between 6 and 12 months.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, said:
“This innovation is about giving our Armed Forces the edge – better awareness, better communications, and lower maintenance needs – supporting the government’s Plan for Change.

“Stratospheric technology like this could transform how we operate in complex environments, keeping our people safer and better informed than ever before.

“This successful trial is another example of UK defence pushing boundaries, with real potential to strengthen our future capabilities.”

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP, added: “We are learning the lessons from Ukraine so our frontline personnel can strike further and faster, maintaining an advantage over our adversaries.

“ASGARD exemplifies the vision of the Strategic Defence Review, with speed and world-class capability achieved by bringing together military, Government, and industry professionals with a focus on rapid frontline delivery.