Overview

• The May 19–21 trial at Outlying Landing Field Seagle in Twentynine Palms, California, paired stratospheric hydrogen-filled balloons with hydrogen fuel‑cell unmanned aircraft.
• NRL reported hydrogen as a feasible replacement for helium in military balloons and as fuel for long‑endurance drones that can operate beyond line of sight.
• High‑altitude balloons carried sensors and communications relays to bounce signals between ground control and UAS, cutting required sorties and expanding coverage.
• Marines provided user feedback during the capstone of a four‑year OECIF program designed to validate the approach and reduce technical risk before larger exercises.
• Pentagon energy officials highlighted expeditionary hydrogen options to extend range and simplify logistics for dispersed operations, including across island chains and from ships.