Barrage balloons are large, tethered balloons that were used as a form of aerial defense during World War I and World War II. The balloons were filled with gas and anchored to the ground with cables, creating a barrier that enemy aircraft would have to fly over or under, making it difficult for them to accurately drop bombs on their targets. The use of barrage balloons was a significant development in aerial defense, as it allowed for a more effective means of protecting ground targets from aerial attacks. The balloons were typically made of rubberized fabric and were filled with either hydrogen or helium gas. They were attached to the ground with steel cables that were anchored to heavy concrete blocks or vehicles. The balloons were flown at heights of up to 1,000 feet, and their cables were designed to tangle in the propellers of enemy aircraft, causing them to crash. Barrage balloons were first used by the British during World War I, and their use was expanded during World War II. They were used extensively during the Blitz, the German bombing campaign against Britain in 1940-1941. The balloons were also used by the United States and other Allied powers during the war. Despite their effectiveness, barrage balloons were not without their drawbacks. They were vulnerable to enemy fire, and their cables could cause damage to buildings and other structures if they came loose. Additionally, the balloons could interfere with friendly aircraft, making it difficult for them to maneuver.
aerial defense, tethered balloons, hydrogen, helium, steel cables
CITATION : "David Jones. 'Barrage Balloons.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=319385 (Accessed on July 16, 2025)"
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