: 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
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
Contrary to popular belief, the main goal wasn't to "catch" every plane. Instead, their presence created a psychological and physical "no-fly zone" at low altitudes: : By forcing planes higher, the balloons pushed
: 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. : By forcing planes higher