HAPS: India's very own UAV that can fly 20 km high and float for months
- Recently, the National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) in Bengaluru successfully completed the first test of a solar-powered “pseudo satellite”.
- The successful test flight in Karnataka's Challakere testing range marks India's foray into advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology.
Key Features of HAPS
- The high-altitude pseudo satellite vehicle (HAPS) can fly at 18-20 km altitude, surpassing commercial airplane heights.
- Powered by solar energy, HAPS can sustain flight for months or even years, resembling satellite capabilities at a fraction of the cost.
- HAPS also eliminates the need for rocket launches, reducing operational expenses compared to traditional satellites.
Rationale Behind HAPS Development
- The necessity for continuous border surveillance post-Doklam standoff in 2017 led to the development of high-endurance, high-altitude flying instruments.
- HAPS offers advantages over battery-powered UAVs and satellites in terms of endurance and constant monitoring capabilities.
- It can significantly increase India’s surveillance and monitoring capabilities in the border areas.
Applications Beyond Surveillance
- HAPS can serve in disaster management and provide mobile communication networks in remote areas.
- A lot of other things that satellites are deployed to do can also be done by these vehicles.
Global Context and Competition
- Other countries like China, South Korea, and the UK are also exploring HAPS technology.
- Private companies, including Indian startups, are actively engaged in HAPS development.
Prelims Takeaway
- High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) Vehicle
- Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)