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TCOM 71M Aerostat

TCOM LP / L3Harris · Tethered Aerostat Radar / Surveillance System / Drug Interdiction / Border Surveillance / Counter-UAS · USA · Cold War (1970–1991)

TCOM 71M Aerostat — Tethered Aerostat Radar / Surveillance System / Drug Interdiction / Border Surveillance / Counter-UAS
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The Tethered Aerostat Radar System (TARS) is an American low-level airborne ground surveillance system that uses aerostats as radar platforms. Similar systems include the EL/M-2083 and JLENS.

Specifications

Category
Airship
Sub-Category
Aerostat
Domain
Defence
Era
Cold War (1970–1991)
Country
USA
Manufacturer
TCOM LP / L3Harris
Operator
US Army / CBP / SOUTHCOM
Primary Role
Tethered Aerostat Radar / Surveillance System / Drug Interdiction / Border Surveillance / Counter-UAS
Status
In Service
Service Entry
1985
Produced
20
Unit Cost (2026$)
~$15M
Launch
Tethered (ground mooring)
Length (ft)
208
Payload (lb)
1600
Endurance (hr)
720
Service Ceiling (ft)
15000
Range (mi)
225