MoD gives Clearance to develop Indigenous High-Altitude Platforms (HAPs)for Border Surveillance!
The Approval In-Principle (AIP) granted by the Indian Ministry of Defence for the indigenous development of high-altitude platforms (HAPs) marks a significant step towards enhancing the country's military capabilities and national security. These advanced platforms are designed for border surveillance and have the potential to revolutionize military reconnaissance and surveillance efforts.
HAPs are distinct from conventional drones due to their operational altitude, which ranges from 18 to 20 kilometers above the Earth's surface. This altitude advantage allows them to cover vast areas and provide crucial data for strategic decision-making. Unlike satellites that orbit at much higher altitudes, HAPs are deployed at lower altitudes, granting them greater maneuverability and responsiveness.
While HAPs are primarily developed for military purposes, their potential non-military applications are extensive and diverse. They can be utilized to combat piracy, monitor smuggling activities, detect irregular migration, and aid in pollution control efforts. Additionally, HAPs are well-suited for search and rescue operations, providing rapid assistance in critical situations. They can also address communication challenges in remote and rural areas by facilitating wireless access, emergency communications, and improving connectivity.
The National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) is leading the HAP development program in India, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is collaborating with startups like NewSpace Research and Technologies to develop their own HAP programs. HAL has allocated ?42 crore for the development of a HAP prototype. Both NAL and HAL have already created smaller-scale HAP models for demonstration purposes, laying the groundwork for the development of full-scale versions. The project's timeline is optimistic, with a projected completion of the full-scale HAP within the next two to three years.
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Edited By: Aman Sirigineedi | Brahmastra Services