WindBorne Systems secures potential $49 million US Air Force contract

California-based startup WindBorne Systems has secured a potential $49 million agreement with the US Air Force. The contract allows the military to purchase atmospheric measurements collected by the company’s fleet of approximately 700 autonomous weather balloons worldwide.

Unlike traditional aircraft, these unpowered balloons use atmospheric models and deep-learning technology to adjust altitude and buoyancy, allowing them to navigate specific wind currents to reach target locations. This capability was demonstrated in August 2026 when the company successfully guided an unpowered system into the eye of a typhoon to collect data.

Under the terms of the agreement, the Air Force can request data for specific locations and timeframes rather than purchasing a fixed amount upfront. While the deal has a maximum value of $49 million, the military has placed orders totaling approximately $1.7 million to date.