Abstract : The Panel concluded that several Lighter-Than-Air (LTA) vehicles now available could provide the endurance and station-keeping needed for persistent ISR, communications relay, and electronic warfare. These vehicles can provide a desired long range communication relay for the Marine Corps and can perform port and harbor security missions at low costs. LTA vehicles offer the potential to provide an enhanced capability for high-altitude (greater than 60,000 feet) communications and surveillance at significantly lower cost than current heavier-than-air vehicles. LTA vehicles also could provide the capability to lift and deliver more than 500 tons of material or personnel to an operational area. While this capability does not exist today, with significant technology development, LTA vehicles could carry out these missions.