Ukrainian engineers are developing a new aerial complex designed to intercept Russian Shahed drones, which are launched almost every night in swarms to target Ukrainian infrastructure.
The system involves using balloons as airborne platforms to carry FPV (first-person view) interceptor drones, according to a report by Frontliner media.
The concept, developed by Ukrainian tech group Aerobavovna and its partners, centers around lifting FPV drones into the sky using a tethered balloon. Once an enemy drone is detected by a thermal imaging camera attached to the balloon, the interceptor drone is released and guided by an operator to strike the target mid-air.
While the technical specs of the system remain classified, the developers say the goal is to create a simple but effective solution to intercept drones like the Iranian-made Shahed-136, which Russia has been using extensively since its full-scale invasion began.
Balloons: More Than Just Surveillance
This is not the first time Ukraine has turned to balloons for military innovation.
For over a year, units within the Ukrainian Defense Forces have been using balloons as communication relays and aerial monitoring platforms, especially in regions where ground-based systems are vulnerable or ineffective.
“We’ve been working for two years to make sure these balloons can fly in all weather,” said one of the system’s developers. “Now we’re testing them in the most challenging conditions.”
The current prototype balloon can reach altitudes of around 800 meters, carry up to 10 kilograms of equipment, and operate regardless of weather. Its applications range from communication relays and surveillance to electronic warfare and now, drone interception.
A Flexible Tool in Ukraine’s Asymmetric Arsenal
The balloon system is being positioned as a low-cost, high-impact tool to help defend Ukraine against the daily drone threat, which is often difficult to counter using conventional air defense systems due to the drones' low altitude and unpredictable flight paths.
Last year, Ukrainian defense company Kvertus revealed that it had developed an airborne version of its Azimuth electronic intelligence system, mounted on Aerobavovna’s balloons to detect and track enemy drone signals.
As Ukraine continues to adapt to Russia’s evolving drone tactics, these airborne platforms are expected to play a growing role on the battlefield.
Developers believe that combining persistent aerial surveillance with the ability to launch interceptors directly from the sky will give Ukrainian forces a better chance at neutralizing drone attacks before they reach their targets.
