India tests indigenous solar-powered High-Altitude Platform System

The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully conducted flight trials of an indigenous High-Altitude Platform System (HAPS). Developed by the Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE), the unmanned aircraft is designed for long-endurance surveillance in the stratosphere.

During experimental flights, the platform reached altitudes of approximately 21 kilometres and maintained a level of 20 kilometres for over 30 minutes. A technology demonstrator also reached an altitude of about 12 kilometres over Pokhran. The long-term objective is to develop platforms capable of remaining airborne for 30 to 45 days by harvesting solar energy, functioning as high-altitude pseudo-satellites.

These systems are intended to provide persistent border surveillance, intelligence gathering, and communications relay capabilities. Compared to traditional satellites, HAPS offer lower launch costs, the ability to be recovered and reused, and the capacity to remain positioned over specific regions for extended periods. The trials were conducted in collaboration with the Indian Air Force and several civil aviation authorities.