As the magazine „The Economist“ writes, combined technologies can allow Ukrainian drones to cover significantly greater distances and attack Russian targets far from the front line.
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Although balloons have been used in wars for more than two centuries, Ukraine is trying to find a new application for them.
Previously, these means were used for observation, later – as air barriers and reconnaissance tools.
According to „The Economist“, since autumn Ukraine has launched more than 1000 balloons into Russian territory. It is noted that they are adapted to perform various tasks: dropping small ammunition, forcing Russian air defense to expend resources, and ensuring radio communication with drones.
The most interesting use of them is as a kind of drone “taxi”.
It is explained that a balloon can lift a drone to a high altitude and carry it part of the way by wind. Then the drone can be released at the required location. Being at a high altitude, it can glide a long distance before turning on its engines.
Ukrainian soldiers have likely been working with this technology for more than a year, the article notes.
In March 2025, a photo appeared showing a drone attached to a balloon made in Ukraine.
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In September, Russian „Telegram“ channels and officials reported a large number of balloons that were spotted around the same time as drone attacks deep in Russia’s rear.
Transported a „Hornet“ drone
Meanwhile, in May, Ukrainian forces reportedly used a balloon to transport an American „Hornet“ drone. The device allegedly flew about 42 kilometers by balloon, then was released at about 8 kilometers altitude.
It is noted that such a strategy saves battery power. According to the data provided, during transport the drone used only about 5% of the battery for electronics operation. Thus, almost all power remained for the main task.
The usual flight range of the „Hornet“ drone starting from the ground is about 150 kilometers. Using a balloon can potentially double this figure.
So far, this technology is mainly intended for transporting light drones. However, using balloons as communication relays in the air can open additional possibilities even for those devices that cannot fully independently perform tasks.
Russia is experimenting too
Russia is also experimenting with balloons, but weather conditions play an important role here. Wind direction can greatly affect exactly where the balloon will fly.
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