HAPs

High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) are advanced unmanned flying systems, which operate in the stratosphere at an altitude of 70,000 feet continuously for 2-3 months, to maintain surveillance on the ground below. The solar energized system is designed to act as a bridge between Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and conventional satellites. The futuristic project has not been designed by any other country yet.

The design work has already been initiated by HAL and HAPS will be induced by 2024-2025.

Decoding HAPS and how are they beneficial for Armed Forces

Recently, there has been a significant increase in the development of High Altitude Pseudo Satellites (HAPS) platforms, which are among the latest aerospace technologies which could revolutionize near-space operations.

Although the development of these unmanned stratospheric vehicles has been underway since the 1990s, the latest advancements in technologies have spurred the momentum with the latest iterations reaching advanced stages in terms of payloads, operations, and capabilities.

HAPS are unmanned aircraft positioned above 20 km altitude, in the stratosphere, to link between unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) flying in lower altitudes and conventional satellites in higher altitudes like the Thermosphere. These unmanned aircraft may be airplanes, airships, or balloons and are stationed at a fixed place to enable versatile intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) options thereby eliminating performance and capability limitations of satellites.

HAPS are cost-effective and are easier to launch. These satellites can be controlled from anywhere using Beyond Line of Sight (BLOS) technology and comprises applications such as telecommunication and remote sensing for both civilian as well as military purposes. HAPS is particularly useful in providing communication in remote locations or in deep seas.

Further, HAPS could offer advantages and complementary applications over satellites, terrestrial infrastructures, and Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), at a relatively convenient price. In this context, space assets could play an imperative role in the development of these new services.