Balloon Used For Observation

During the war between France and Austria, French forces successfully used a balloon for aerial observation for the first time. The balloon, called "L'Entreprenant" was piloted by Captain Charles Coutelle and carried General Morlot inside as an observor. In the battle at Fleuras, the French balloon was used to observe the movements of the Austrian forces. The observation gave the French a battlefield advantage, that led to their victory.