Modern conflict have demonstrated the importance of continuous air defence systems coverage of airspace. Surveillance is now required from the very low level to defend against cruise missiles, low flying aircraft and drones, to the very high level to defend against the threat from ballistic missiles and in the future against hypersonic glide vehicles. While traditional AWACS aircraft remain central to surveillance, their limited numbers and high operating costs have prompted exploration of alternative solutions, even as the IAF is working to increase the number of these airborne radar sites, gaps will still persist.One emerging idea is to employ drones such as the MQ‑9B, which can carry radar pods and provide persistent coverage for over 30 hours. These drone‑based AEW platforms could supplement existing AWACS fleets, detecting low‑flying cruise missiles and swarming drones across India’s borders and maritime zones. However, drones will also be required for strike and reconnaissance missions during a conflict, making their diversion to radar roles less optimal.A more cost‑effective and dedicated solution lies in developing and then deploying an aerostat‑based network of radar systems. These airships, or elevated tethered balloons can carry radar and communication payloads to altitudes of up to 5 km, extending radio line of sight and providing low‑level coverage over 80–120 km. Such systems have been tested by the Defence Research and Development Organisation. These can be relocated quickly, operated with minimal manpower and they can remain airborne for extended periods of time at a much lower cost than flying either a manned or an unmanned aircraft.Israeli Aerospace Industry has already fielded the ELM‑2083A Aerostat Early Warning Radar, capable of operating at 15,000 feet and offering 360‑degree coverage for hundreds of kilometres. The US too operates the Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) for persistent surveillance and has sold the Airspace and Surface Radar Reconnaissance (ASRR) aerostat system to Poland. Unlike aircraft, aerostats deliver continuous surveillance, ensuring persistent detection of stealthy and horizon‑level threats. Integrating aerostat systems alongside AWACS and drones could create a layered, resilient early warning network, enhancing air defence readiness against modern aerial challenges.
