The recent news of a suspected Chinese surveillance balloon being monitored by the Pentagon in the skies over the United States has raised concerns and questions about its purpose and activities. The flight path of the balloon, initially spotted over Montana, could potentially fly over sensitive sites and US officials are taking necessary steps to protect against foreign intelligence collection.
Although the use of balloons as spy platforms dates back to the early days of the Cold War, their use declined with the advent of modern satellite technology. However, recent advances in the miniaturization of electronics have made it possible for balloons to be used as spy tools once again. Balloons can now weigh less, be smaller and easier to launch, and can be steered to take advantage of winds. This means that balloons can loiter and maintain surveillance in an area of interest, something satellites cannot do.
According to experts, the suspected Chinese balloon is likely collecting information on US communication systems and radars, as well as signals intelligence such as cell phone traffic and radio traffic. The information collected could be transmitted in real-time via satellite links back to China.
Montana and nearby states are also home to US intercontinental ballistic missile silos and strategic bomber bases, adding to the concerns about the balloon's activities. US officials have taken actions to prevent the balloon from collecting any sensitive data, but have decided against shooting it down due to the risk of falling debris.
In conclusion, while the use of balloons as spy tools may be making a comeback due to advances in technology, their purpose and activities remain unclear and a source of concern for the US. The US officials are taking necessary measures to protect against any foreign intelligence collection, but if the balloon can be brought down within US territory, it may reveal valuable information.
