Israel recently deployed a large radar blimp, “Sky Dew,” along the Lebanon border due to rising tensions with Hezbollah, a Lebanese Shia Islamist political party and militant group.
About Sky Dew:
- Sky Dew or High Availability Aerostat System (HAAS), is one of the largest high-altitude observation balloons and is a collaborative project between the US and Israel.
- It was developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and American balloon manufacturer TCOM.
- This was designed to detect unmanned aircraft and cruise missiles from Iran and Syria, which are typically small and challenging to detect.
- It was done using simpler balloons in the south, developed after the peace agreement with Egypt to monitor surprise attacks from the east.
- The reconnaissance balloon carries 7,000 pounds and operates at an altitude of about 10,000 feet.
- Radar system based on the Arrow system, capable of observing at 250 km and tracking multiple targets.
Advantages:
- Operating costs are significantly lower than AWACS (Airborne Warning and Control System), making it a cost-effective solution.
- The radar on these aircraft is more advanced than the AWACS, offering better detection capabilities and resistance to jamming.
- It can remain in surveillance for extended periods without needing fuel or crew replacement.
- This can track multiple targets, including, low-altitude and valley targets.
Challenges:
- The Sky Dew balloon will not be able to rise to extreme heights or accompany fighter jets to targets like Iran.
- It has a huge size, making it visible to enemies from more distance.
- It is sensitive to basic faults like air leaks.
Ref: Source
| UPSC IAS Preparation Resources | |
| Current Affairs Analysis | Topperspedia |
| GS Shots | Simply Explained |
| Daily Flash Cards | Daily Quiz |