IAB Interactive Standardized Equipment List   return to main tree

Search Interactive SEL:



[03OE-07-ROVL] Prev [03OE-07-SUAD] Next
SEL Number: 03OE-07-STAT
Title: Aerostat, Tethered (Balloon)


Last Updated: 10/1/2020 12:37:02 PM

Previous SEL Number: 03OE-07-STAT

Description: Tethered aerostats are unmanned balloons that use lighter-than-air gases such as helium to take flight and remain aloft while moored by ground equipment. A tethered aerostat system requires a number of components to be fully operational. The key component is a balloon filled with lighter-than-air gas that enables the system to take flight and remain aloft. These balloons, usually referred to as envelopes, come in different shapes, sizes, and designs, which are determined by mission, payload, and logistical factors. Other components typically include:

- A means for transporting the system, such as a truck and/or trailer;
- A mooring station for controlling the inflated aerostat envelope prior to launch;
- A launching platform, which sometimes doubles as the mooring station;
- Tethers used for both mooring the aerostat envelope to ground equipment and for transmitting power and data;
- Winches for letting out, pulling in, and adjusting the tension of the tethers; and
- Automatic or manual deflation devices.

Depending upon the mission, tethered aerostats can support a variety of surveillance and tactical equipment. This item also includes mission-specific payloads that are designed to be attached to the tethered aerostat platform. Examples include, but are not limited to, high-resolution video cameras, electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensors, communication/network repeaters, acoustic detectors, and radar. Some tethered aerostat products may also include a ground control station for media storage, data transmission, and system management functions.

ImportantFeatures: All aerostats will have an FAA-required Rapid Deflation Device laced or incorporated for use in the event that the mooring device fails.
Size and shape of envelope will vary based upon performance requirements.
Cables co-located with mooring cables for power/signaling.
Variety of mission-specific payload packages.
Instrumentation to display height above ground, inflation pressure, or other key parameters.
Ground control station with ability to manage payload functionality and remotely initiate Rapid Deflation Device.

Operating Considerations: Note that training requirements below are highly variable based upon size, complexity, and operating environment of the system.

Deployment SOP should include location survey that determines site based upon mission requirements (e.g., VHF line-of-sight or other obstructions) and places the system in an open area away from power lines, buildings, infrastructure, and other obstacles. SOP should also plan for emergency recovery and damage mitigation if mooring fails.
Deployment SOP must consider applicable FAA requirements, particularly maximum altitudes, proximity to airport (not less than 5 miles), visibility and cloud clearance, lighting for night operation, and FAA Air Traffic Control notification (above 150 feet above ground level). In addition, any applicable State and Local laws and regulations (flight and privacy) must be incorporated.
Equipment should be operated by an experienced operator. Specialized personnel for payload monitoring/operation may be required, such as communications or networking specialists.
Consider prevailing and forecast weather conditions, particularly regarding wind, visibility, and ceiling. Lift can be impacted by temperature, altitude, wind, a leak in the balloon or other factors. Also, each aerostat / mooring system will have operating limitations, particularly regarding wind strength.

Training Requirements: Per manufacturer's requirements and intended mission environment.
Initial Training: Moderate (1-2 days)
Sustainment Training: Minimal (<1 day)

Mandatory Standards:

Applicable Standards and References: