British engineers have successfully completed a stratospheric flight test of PHASA-35, BAE Systems’ unmanned high-altitude pseudo-satellite (HAPS).
Within a 24-hour period, PHASA-35 reached an altitude of over 66,000 feet (approximately 22,000 meters), entering the stratosphere before landing successfully. The test was conducted last month in New Mexico, US, allowing engineers to evaluate the experimental performance of the solar-powered drone in the Earth’s atmosphere.
This flight represents a significant milestone in the development of the PHASA-35, whose conception began in 2018. Designed by Prismatic Ltd, a subsidiary of BAE Systems, to operate above conventional air traffic and weather conditions, this system has the potential to provide a persistent and stable platform for a range of applications, including long-endurance intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and security purposes.
In addition, PHASA-35 has the potential to be used in the deployment of communication networks, such as 4G and 5G technologies, and can be employed in a wide range of applications, from disaster relief to border protection, as an alternative to conventional airborne systems and satellites.
The PHASA-35 program is part of FalconWorks, a new advanced and agile airborne research and development center at BAE Systems, designed to deliver a range of cutting-edge combat air capabilities for the UK and its allies.
The PHASA-35 has a wingspan of 35 meters and a payload of 15 kg. It incorporates a number of cutting-edge technologies including advanced composite materials, power management, solar cells and photovoltaic arrays to provide power during the day, which is stored in rechargeable cells to maintain flight during the night.
This successful test evaluated the performance of the experimental system in several areas. It marks the first in a series of planned tests to confirm the system’s performance, support development activities and validate the milestones needed to make the PHASA-35 available in international commercial and defense markets.
Dave Corfield, CEO of Prismatic Ltd, commented: “This is an extraordinary achievement for all involved and demonstrates BAE Systems’ commitment to investing in new technologies and markets. The first stratospheric flight of the PHASA-35 shows that this aircraft is on track to become the benchmark system for long endurance, high altitude and communications applications in the future.”
Corfield added: “The success of these trials is a testament to the hard work of our exceptional team formed over the past two years at Prismatic and in partnership with companies such as Piran, Amprius, Microlink, Honeywell, PMW Dynamics and the Met Office. We look forward to the next steps in the development of this unique system.”
Cliff Robson, Managing Director, Air Sector, BAE Systems, said: “PHASA-35 is breaking new ground and exploring the stratosphere for unprecedented possibilities. The team, which brings together BAE Systems expertise from around the world and innovative power management and solar energy technologies, has demonstrated huge commitment and ambition in tackling the challenges associated with new technologies and approaches. This form of partnership is essential to enhance our defense expertise with new ideas and technologies.”