Pentagon Unveils New Spy Blimp Coming to a Sky Near You
The blimp is called Aerostat and is used to track down enemies and secure supply routes in Afghanistan. But the developer, Aerostar, is now pitching the idea to states that share a border with Mexico.
There are cameras on the belly of the blimp that are able to zoom in for miles with great detail. The cameras can shoot in several different modes including infrared. The technology can also be used in disaster areas where communications are down.
“It’s tried and tested and true in some of the most vicious landscapes in the world in Afghanistan,” said Lon Stroschein with Aerostar. “We know that it would float up along the border towns and border counties and keep people safe and prevent people from coming across the border.”
The developer was only allowed to point their cameras on the Camp Mabry campus. Other parts of Austin were off limits. The blimp is on display as a part of the National Guard convention that’s being held at the Austin convention center through this weekend.
Lockheed Martin’s Hybrid Air Vehicle can be designed as an unmanned or manned intelligence gatherer or transport vehicle. As an eye in the sky, this remarkable airship can stay aloft for up to three weeks at an altitude of 20,000 feet. Loaded with cameras, infrared sensors, communications relays, and other payloads, the Hybrid Air Vehicle can provide American and allied forces a clear picture of the battlefield. As a transport vehicle, the Hybrid Air Vehicle can be sized to move equipment and troops cost effectively to unimproved forward areas.
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