Importance

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Abstract

A data relay system for relaying data between an air vehicle or missile and a command centre, the data relay system comprising at least one balloon, the balloon comprising a communications link to both the command centre and the air vehicle or missile. The invention further provides a method of relaying data between an air vehicle or missile and a command centre, the method comprising the steps of providing a balloon with a radio frequency transmitter and receiver unit and a power unit, deploying the balloon at high altitude such that the balloon is within the line-of-sight of the command centre and the air vehicle or missile, and using the balloon to relay radio frequency signals between the air vehicle or missile and the command centre. The invention further provides a second method of relaying data between an air vehicle or missile and a command centre, the method comprising the steps of providing a balloon with a radio frequency transmitter and receiver unit and a power unit, further providing the balloon with a fibre optic cable interface unit, wherein one end of a fibre optic cable is connected to the balloon, the other end being connected to an associated missile or air vehicle, deploying the balloon at high altitude such that the balloon is within the line-of-sight of the command centre, and using the balloon to relay data between the air vehicle or missile and the command centre, the balloon communicating with the command centre using radio frequency signals and communicating with the air vehicle or missile using the fibre optic cable. The invention also provides a missile comprising an inflatable bag, gas for inflating the inflatable bag, a radio frequency receiver and transmitter unit, and a power unit.

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First Claim