Guarding against illegal border crossings can be difficult across long distances and rugged terrain. But RT LTA Systems Ltd. has developed innovative aerostat technology for deploying systems needed in the detection of border crossings via all-terrain vehicles (ATVs). With the aid of ATVs, the aerostat systems can deploy intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and communications systems capable of broad 360° detection coverage.
The company, based in Yavne, Israel, and working with its Texas-based subsidiary, RT Aerostat Systems Inc., has developed aerostat systems that serve the needs of such organizations as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency. The aerostat platforms include the SkyStar and SkyGuard systems, shown recently (April 8-9, 2025) at the Border Security Expo 2025 in Phoenix, Ariz.
The mobile ISR and communications systems (see image above) leverage the company’s experience in developing combat-proven aerostat solutions capable of dependable early-warning alerts and enhanced situational awareness. Each system consists of a ground control station, ground system module, tether, lighter-than-air platform, stabilized payload platform, and advanced sensor suite.
They can be rapidly deployed by small crews and support diverse payloads, including infrared (IR) cameras and radars. The SkyStar aerostats carry payloads to altitudes as high as 1,500 feet while larger SkyGuard aerostats elevate to 20,000 feet.
RT’s CEO, Rami Shmueli, explained how the technology evolved to effectively serve the southern U.S. border: “For years, we have delivered cutting-edge aerostat technologies to border security agencies worldwide. Our highly mobile and versatile systems are designed to address the evolving challenges of the U.S. southern border and beyond. With our Texas-based subsidiary, we are well-positioned to equip U.S. border security agencies with state-of-the-art ISR solutions.”
