New balloon that detects missiles and drone threats becomes operational in Israel’s North
The “Elevated Sensor” carries advanced radar technology that will strengthen the defense of Israeli airspace against Iran’s threats from Lebanon and Syria
The Israeli Air Force received a giant new balloon on Wednesday which carries an advanced radar system designed to provide an early warning against missiles and drones.
The detection system, dubbed “Elevated Sensor” or “Sky Dew,” is set to operate mainly in Israel’s northern region.
In recent years, there have been multiple attempts by Iran to deploy drones with advanced capabilities from the territories of Lebanon and Syria. Some drones launched by Iran’s proxy in Lebanon, Hezbollah, have even managed to infiltrate into Israeli territory a few times. Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah recently admitted in a speech that the group has been manufacturing drones and precision missiles for years.
According to the defense establishment, the new system will constitute a significant component in strengthening air control for the defense of Israeli airspace. It was as developed through a cooperative program between the Israel Missile Defense Organization (IMDO) and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA).
“The Early Warning ‘Elevated Sensor’ was a challenging vision that began almost 10 years ago,” said Moshe Patel, director of the Israel Missile Defense Organization. “This aerostat system will cruise at high altitudes and provide an exceptional multi-directional detection capability against advanced threats.”
Vice Admiral Jon A. Hill, director of the U.S. Missile Defense Agency, highlighted the Israeli-American cooperation in the project, saying that “the co-developed technology and research is a benefit to both nations.”
“This system will further enhance Israel’s advanced threat detection capabilities to maintain Israel’s qualitative military edge,” the vice admiral added.
The new High Altitude Sensor Aerostat will complement a similar zeppelin which is already operational and located in the South of the country, where it monitors the area around the city of Dimona.
The system was formally handed over to the Israeli military at an official ceremony held on Tuesday in northern Israel.
Tal Heinrich is a senior correspondent for both ALL ISRAEL NEWS and ALL ARAB NEWS. She is currently based in New York City. Tal also provides reports and analysis for Israeli Hebrew media Channel 14 News.
