By Mass Communication Specialist Seaman Zane Ecklund, USS Iwo Jima Public Affairs
USS IWO JIMA, At Sea (NNS) -- Airmen and Marines aboard multipurpose amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD 7) launched a weather balloon, outfitted with new technology, from the ship Jan. 19.
The weather balloon, in conjunction with a Combat SkySat High Altitude Radio Relay Package launched by Airmen from the Arizona Air National Guard, demonstrated the capabilities of this new technology to Marines of the 26th Marine Expeditionary Unit (26 MEU). Current technology allows Marines in the field to boost a signal approximately 60 miles. The SkySat package boosts the signal of radio equipment up to 600 miles.
"The radio relay package rises to an altitude between 60 to 90 thousand feet and enhances warfighter capabilities," said Lt. Col. Patty Tuttle, commander, Arizona Air National Guard Detachment 2.
The signals received and re-transmitted by SkySat can be picked up by ground units and pilots immediately after the launch.
"The Marines were pleased with the result," said Tuttle. "At one point during long-range helicopter operations, SkySat was the only communications they had. They were talking from ship to helicopter to Yuma and Camp Pendleton."
"The equipment is safer and more cost effective than using personnel and aircraft to do the same job," said Tech. Sgt. Craig Armstrong, Arizona Air National Guard Detachment 2 ground radio non-commissioned officer in charge. "It drastically reduces the amount of personnel going into harm's way."
The technology is used at sea as well. Chief Aerographer's Mate (AW/SW) Burt Crapo sees weather balloons as being practical in the Navy since an intelligence surveillance reconnaissance package could replace the balloon ballast, which could track boats, troop movements and traffic lanes.
"Because of the size of the balloon, there is a weight restraint; so there is only so much you can put on it," said Crapo.
Crapo also suggested adding a meteorological/oceanographic device, which would improve meteorological models available to the ship.
He said the models help with the navigation of the ship, mission planning, Marine support and aiding communications for other ships in the strike group.
Iwo Jima is deployed to the U.S. 5th Fleet Area of Operations with the Iwo Jima Expeditionary Strike Group to conduct maritime security operations (MSO). MSO help develop security in the maritime environment. From security arises stability that results in global economic prosperity. MSO complement the counterterrorism and security efforts of regional nations and seek to disrupt violent extremists' use of the maritime environment as a venue for attack or to transport personnel, weapons or other material.