Chinese researchers from the Changchun Institute of Optics, Precision Mechanics and Physics (CIOMP) have announced the creation of an unmanned aerostat that can detect stealth aircraft at a distance of up to 2000 kilometers. According to the scientists, the new aerostat is equipped with advanced thermal sensors that significantly outperform traditional radars in detecting stealth objects such as American F-35 and F-22 fighters.

Thermal sensors detect infrared radiation from aircraft engines and airframes, allowing objects to be identified even in conditions where radars may fail. If confirmed, the new aerostat could significantly alter the balance of power in the airspace and give China a significant advantage in early detection and counteraction of air threats.

The CIOMP research group has proposed deploying a network of such balloons in strategically important areas of China's airspace. According to the scientists, deploying clusters of these devices will help create an overlapping early warning network, which will significantly strengthen the country's air defense systems. In addition, the developers are considering using a swarm of smaller balloons for denser coverage and a multi-layered surveillance system.

One of the key advantages of these balloons is their ability to remain in the upper atmosphere for long periods of time, allowing for continuous surveillance without the need for regular maintenance. In addition, their cost is significantly lower than that of ground-based radars and satellite systems, making the new balloons a cost-effective solution for expanding surveillance capabilities.

The development of Chinese scientists has attracted wide interest among military experts and analysts. The technology, which allows tracking low-observable aircraft, could negate the main advantage of fifth-generation fighters. Stealth aircraft such as the F-35 and F-22 were designed to remain undetected by radar, providing an advantage in combat. However, thermal sensors can detect them by their infrared signature, making invisibility conditional.

Using balloons for surveillance and tracking is not a new concept. The United States used similar technologies as early as the 1980s to monitor borders and detect low-flying objects. However, recent developments have significantly improved the capabilities of balloons, increasing their range and detection accuracy. China is actively promoting this technology, which may create new geopolitical risks and competition in the field of air defense.

Recent incidents involving Chinese balloons seen over US territory have already caused tensions between Washington and Beijing, with the US military raising concerns about the possible use of such devices for reconnaissance purposes. The announcement by Chinese scientists has only fueled debate about the strategic role of balloons in modern conflicts.