Inflatable Decoys & Dispersal: How Air Forces Now Protect Parked Aircraft

Air forces worldwide are increasingly employing inflatable decoys and dispersal techniques to safeguard parked stealth aircraft from potential threats. These measures address the vulnerability of advanced aircraft when stationary on the tarmac. The primary goal is to create a confusing visual landscape for adversaries, making it significantly harder to accurately identify and engage these high-value assets. Specifically, inflated decoy shapes mimic the appearance of operational aircraft, drawing fire away from the real planes. This tactic offers a cost-effective method of protection against attacks by surface-to-air missiles or other ground-based weaponry.