An aerial detection system includes an aerial vehicle unit and a hanging platform mechanically connected to an aerial vehicle by at least one flexible link. An EM sensor and hanging platform circuitry are mounted on the hanging platform. The hanging platform circuitry processes the EM sensor output signals. The aerial vehicle unit is attached the aerial vehicle and includes AVU circuitry which processes signals output by the hanging platform circuitry. The hanging platform circuitry and AVU circuitry are connected by one or more wired and/or wireless signal connections.