Barrage Balloon Today

: Each balloon was tethered by a braided steel cable. If a wing clipped it, the result was almost always a crash—65% of cable strikes resulted in aircraft loss.

Operating these giants was dangerous work. Originally handled by men, the responsibility largely shifted to the Women's Auxiliary Air Force (WAAF) in Britain. Being a Barrage Balloon Operator - The Royal British Legion barrage balloon

: By forcing planes higher, the balloons pushed them directly into the optimum range of anti-aircraft guns , making them easier targets for ground crews. The Operators: The WAAFs and the 320th : Each balloon was tethered by a braided steel cable

The "proper story" of the barrage balloon is one of a silent, silver sentinel that became an icon of home front defense during World War II . Often called " castles of the air ," these massive hydrogen-filled bags were much more than just floating decorations; they were high-stakes aerial booby traps. Their Primary Purpose: Forcing the High Ground Often called " castles of the air ,"

: By occupying the lower sky, they forced German Luftwaffe pilots to fly at higher altitudes. This significantly reduced their bombing accuracy and prevented devastating dive-bombing attacks.