BALLOON BARRAGE Meaning and
Definition
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A balloon barrage refers to a defensive military tactic where large numbers of balloons, usually filled with gas, are released into the air to deter enemy aircraft or hinder their operations. These balloons are typically equipped with an array of anchored cables or wires intentionally designed to interfere with the movement and navigation of hostile aircraft.
The primary purpose of a balloon barrage is to create a physical obstacle in the airspace, thereby constraining the mobility and obstructing the attacks of enemy aircraft. By flying at various altitudes, the balloons create hazards and challenge the maneuverability of aircraft, particularly those flying at low altitudes. The cables attached to the balloons pose a significant risk to the wings, engines, and propellers of enemy planes, potentially causing damage or even bringing down the aircraft.
Balloon barrages were extensively used during the World Wars, primarily as a defensive measure against low-flying attack aircraft and bombers. They were often deployed near strategic targets, cities, ports, airfields, and other vulnerable locations. The threat of balloons impeding their operations forced enemy pilots to alter their flight paths and heights, making them more susceptible to anti-aircraft fire or aerial interception.
Typically, balloon barrages were composed of a network of interconnected balloon clusters, spaced at regular intervals, along with supporting ground infrastructure such as winches, balloons sheds, and observation posts. The balloons were often marked with specific national identification symbols to avoid confusion with friendly aircraft.
Common Misspellings for BALLOON BARRAGE
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Etymology of BALLOON BARRAGE
The word "balloon barrage" is a combination of two words:
1. Balloon: The word "balloon" originally comes from the Italian word "ballone", which means "large ball.” It was first used in English during the late 16th century to describe a game played with a large inflated leather ball. Over time, the term "balloon" came to refer to an inflatable object that can be filled with gas or air, such as the ones used for transportation or decoration.
2. Barrage: The word "barrage" comes from the French word "barrage", which means "barrier" or "blockade". It entered the English language in the late 19th century and was initially used to describe a defensive barrier, typically created with artillery fire or explosives to block enemy advances.
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