Edmonton, Alberta — The newly formed “Balloon Platoon” at the Edmonton Garrison are a group of keen young soldiers learning the capabilities of Canada’s new Persistent Surveillance System (PSS). As members of Task Force 3-09, they will be the first soldiers to use this C-IED (Counter Improvised Explosive Devise) system in theatre.
“It turns out a balloon is a very stable platform,” explains Captain Robert Dona, the officer responsible for ensuring the system works on behalf of the Assistant Deputy Minister (Materiel). “The balloon acts as a visual deterrent, as well. If you can see it, it can see you.”
Cutting-edge imaging system
The PSS is a helium-filled balloon, which suspends a state-of-the-art imaging system. This simple mix of old and new technology has the potential to severely limit the ability of insurgents to wage war in Afghanistan. The system is, in turn, tethered to an earth station via a thin, Kevlar control cable.
Inexpensive and effective
This robust, proven system can remain on station 24/7, coming down only periodically for routine maintenance or to move
The balloon is one component of an elaborate package that makes up the Persistent Surveillance System (PSS).
locations. It is operated by four soldiers and requires very little maintenance from a small group of technicians, making it an inexpensive, effective intelligence-gathering machine for the Army.
The payload is a high-resolution camera, capable of night and day operation over a large area of surveillance. Three PSSs cover the entire Gaza strip.
The data collected is then sent to the proper authorities, as with any other intelligence-gathering device, be it an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or a foot patrol. An integration project is planned that will enable the PSS to send real time feed to commanders.
International and domestic applications
The onboard camera sends a steady stream of images down to computers on the ground, where technicians monitor what the unblinking lens sees.
Canada has purchased five PSSs from Rheinmetall Canada, based in Saint-Jean, Quebec. Two of them will remain at the Edmonton Garrison for training; the other three will be deployed by the Army, as required.
The system was purchased for use in Afghanistan, but as Capt Dona pointed out, it could have domestic uses as well, such as the upcoming Olympics, for example. The Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM), Aeronautics, is an Israeli company.
This C-IED system, even now, is keeping a watchful eye over critical areas in Afghanistan—day and night—making a dangerous place a little bit safer.
Article by Master Corporal McVeigh, Army News
Balloon platoon uses new PSS to fight insurgents
A tethered big, white balloon with a camera on board is used as part of ongoing Army training to observe, deter and defeat insurgents who plant IEDs in Afghanistan.
Friday, November 06, 2009
Project Number: 09-0817
