Next-generation airships

A new blimp-like airship is being constructed by Worldwide Aeros in a World War II-era blimp hanger at a former military base in Tustin. The airship will be used by the military to carry tons of cargo to remote areas around the world. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

Aug. 31, 2012 8:32 PM PT

In recent years, the affordability of airships and developments in high-definition cameras, high-powered sensors and other unmanned technologies have prompted the military to buy more blimps, zeppelins and spy balloons. Many of these new-generation hybrid “lighter than air” aircraft are taking shape across California.

Engine mechanic Gerardo Esparza works on one of the three engines that will propel the new airship. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

Craftsmen assemble the aft portion of Worldwide Aeros’ blimp-like airship under construction in a World War II-era blimp hanger in Tustin. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

The cockpit sits on the floor next to the partially assembled airship. It will be be installed beneath the craft. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

Fredy Zuniga trims a piece of the airship’s aft section framework. “Because of the curves, every single piece has to be custom cut and fitted,” Zuniga says. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

Worldwide Aeros’ Aeroscraft being built in Tustin is a zeppelin with a rigid skeleton made of aluminum and carbon fiber. A new type of “hybrid” aircraft that combines airplane and airship technologies, it doesn’t need a long runway to take off or land because it has piston engines that allow it to move vertically and a new high-tech buoyancy control system. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

The Aeroscraft is being built under a contract of around $35 million from the Pentagon and NASA. That’s a tall order for Worldwide Aeros, a company of about 100 employees. (Don Bartletti / Los Angeles Times)

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Next-generation airships

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