The LTAS 200 aerostat surveillance system is based on electro-optical technology used on advanced tactical UAVs. The firmware of the 2-axis stabilized, 3-gimbal system has been modified for use on the Aerial Products’ KingFisher balloon to provide a stable image to the operator. All balloon surveillance systems share an important trait; they don’t crash with the violent energy of a UAV. By nature and design, the use of lighter-than-air balloons is safer and less expensive than the alternatives.

The LTAS 200 has the right combination of capabilities, including thermal detectors and ease of deployment. The LTAS 200 uses traditional procedures and technology widely deployed by militaries and governments worldwide. Of note is that the electro-optical camera and gimbal system has been designated by the Israel Ministry of Defense for use on all unmanned aerial vehicle systems with payloads of less than 2 pounds (4kg).

The LTAS 200 has a wide range of payload options from daylight only cameras to the new cooled thermal detector with constant rate optical zoom. Originally designed for tactical military use, the LTAS 200 is a hardened, easy to deploy, cost-effective system for a variety of missions. From border and port security to emergency management, and from law enforcement to drug interdiction, the LTAS 200 is the right solution.

Methods and Technologies
Features of the LTAS 200 system
• Proven design for use in high-intensity theaters of operation
• Electro-optical options include; daylight color, un-cooled thermal, cooled thermal and low-light detectors
• System is based on the KingFisher balloon
• 2-Axis stabilized, 3-gimbal mount
• Conventional video network with designated workstation control

Operational Benefits of the LTAS 200
• Extended mission duration using Lighter-Than-Air balloon platform
• Daylight and Nighttime (low light) operation
• Wide field of view with stabilized optical zoom
• Flexible deployment with available all-weather capability in up to 50mph winds

LTAS 200 Technical Characteristics
• 1/4” CCD detector array with 320x240 pixel resolution
• 10x Continuous zoom
• Wired operation from designated ground station via highly-specialized tether
• Wind-capable balloon up to 50mph
• 2-Axis (pitch, roll) gyro-stabilized articulating detector platform

With one of the smallest stabilized thermal detectors available, the LTAS 200 uses a 13 foot Kingfisher which is easy to operate and requires minimal training.

The LTAS 200 system comprises of a tethered balloon, filled with helium gas, stabilized mini payload, portable ground control station (PGCS) and datalink between the PGCS and the balloon. Hovering 450 ft. above the ground, LTAS 200 provides superior surveillance capabilities accomplished with simple equipment, requiring an operational crew of just two personnel with minimal skills and needing only simple maintenance procedures.

Aerial Products will never sell to a country on the US Department of State sponsor of terrorism list. Further, the LTAS 200 has technology that is export restricted.