VS test surveillance-ballonnen boven Balticum in mei 2026

The U.S. Army will conduct a high-altitude balloon test over northern Europe in May 2026, launching from Sweden and concluding in Latvia as part of a NATO-linked surveillance and communications exercise. The Micro High-Altitude Balloons will operate between 60,000 and 70,000 feet for approximately 24 to 30 hours, testing sensing systems to improve operational awareness across the Baltic region. The initiative supports NATO's Eastern Flank Deterrence efforts following Russia's invasion of Ukraine and aims to demonstrate how low-cost balloon platforms could enhance military capabilities while