In a bid to strengthen Russia’s defenses against Ukrainian drone attacks, President Vladimir Putin has ordered the deployment of wartime-style barrage balloons. These colossal balloons, designed to soar high above strategic locations, are intended to deter and disrupt enemy drones. The decision to employ barrage balloons stems from the increasing threat posed by Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). These drones have proven effective in delivering precision strikes and conducting reconnaissance missions, causing significant damage to Russian military assets and infrastructure. To counter this threat, Putin has authorized the deployment of barrage balloons, reminiscent of those used during World War II. These massive balloons are tethered to the ground and equipped with sharp wires or cables that can entangle and destroy incoming drones. According to military analysts, barrage balloons offer several advantages in the defense against drones. They provide a cost-effective and relatively low-tech solution, requiring minimal resources and expertise to deploy and maintain. Additionally, they can cover large areas, creating a formidable aerial barrier that makes it difficult for drones to penetrate. The deployment of barrage balloons has sparked mixed reactions. Some experts argue that they are a useful and inexpensive way to protect critical assets. Others, however, express concerns about their effectiveness against modern drones, which may be equipped with technology to avoid or bypass such obstacles. Despite the potential drawbacks, Putin’s decision to employ barrage balloons highlights the growing concern among Russian authorities about the threat posed by Ukrainian drones. As the conflict in Ukraine continues, it remains to be seen whether these wartime-style measures will prove effective in deterring and mitigating the impact of enemy UAVs.In response to Ukraine’s effective use of drones, Russia plans to employ a defense system inspired by First and Second World War tactics: barrage balloons.In response to Ukraine’s effective use of drones, Russia plans to employ a defense system inspired by First and Second World War tactics: barrage balloons. First Airship, a Russian aerospace company, has developed the “Barrier” protection system, which consists of balloons that rise quickly and deploy a 250m-tall net to deter drones. These balloons float up to 300m above the ground and can carry a 30kg load, allowing them to support the net and additional equipment such as radar, jammers, and cameras. The net is designed to be nearly invisible to drones, making it difficult for them to navigate and avoid. Additionally, the balloons can be equipped with a “vacuum gun” that shoots a strong net at drones. Russia has previously used air balloons in Ukraine, launching reflective ones over Kyiv to confuse missile defense systems. Historically, barrage balloons were extensively used during World War I to defend against enemy spotters and aircraft, and in World War II to create barriers against bombers and flying bombs.Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the deployment of wartime-style barrage balloons to protect against Ukrainian drone attacks. The move comes as Kyiv has stepped up its use of unmanned aerial vehicles to strike targets deep inside Russian territory. The barrage balloons, which are large, inflatable devices filled with helium, are designed to float above strategic locations and deter or destroy incoming drones. They are typically equipped with cables or nets that can entangle and bring down the aircraft. Russian officials said the balloons would be deployed in areas where critical infrastructure, military bases, and population centers are at risk from drone attacks. They emphasized that the balloons are a defensive measure and do not pose a threat to civilian aircraft. However, experts have questioned the effectiveness of barrage balloons against modern drones. They argue that the balloons are vulnerable to being shot down or bypassed by more advanced aircraft. Additionally, they could pose a hazard to birds and other wildlife. Despite these concerns, Russian authorities are determined to proceed with the deployment of the balloons. They believe it is a necessary step to protect the country from the growing threat of Ukrainian drone attacks. The move highlights the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine and the increasing use of drones in modern warfare. It remains to be seen whether the barrage balloons will prove to be an effective defense against Ukraine’s drone arsenal.