***We recorded every bit of communication in and out of the balloon. From the path it took, we learned what the PRC was interested in. We learned who it was communicating with inside the PLA and what they were interested in.
After we shot it down, we got the hardware. This unlocked a trove of information as to PRC capabilities, sources, and methods***
I don't believe that this assessment significantly alters my analysis or suspicions. It could modify the potential seriousness of the incident. My 'suspicions' were only suspicions.
The balloon's intrusion constituted a potential security breach and NORAD stated in testimony that information was withheld from them until the last minutes prior to the intrusion. The potential for being a hypersonic missile launch platform is confirmed by Chinese published sources.
And just what do you think the PRC gained from their little adventure?
It wouldn't have photographed anything we were interested in protecting. It is so slow anything within range of its cameras would have been covered well before it came over the horizon. The only thing they were going to see was what we wanted them to see.
Over the air communications? Hardly. Besides there are better ways of collecting that intel.
SpyNavy
Garde la Foi, mes amis! Nous nous sommes les sauveurs de la République! Maintenant et Toujours!
(Keep the Faith, my friends! We are the saviors of the Republic! Now and Forever!)
LonePalm, le Républicain du verre cassé (The Broken Glass Republican)