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The BAE Systems built PHASA-35 high altitude pseudo satellite (HAPS) has achieved a significant milestone, bringing it closer to operational deployment in the stratosphere.
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A British-led engineering team has advanced the race to utilise the stratosphere for earth observation and communications by successfully completing a series of test flights for BAE Systems’ PHASA-35 uncrewed aerial system (UAS). These flights mark a critical step in the development of this cutting-edge solar-powered aircraft.
In its inaugural flight at Spaceport America in New Mexico, USA, the PHASA-35 ascended to over 66,000 feet, cruising in the stratosphere for 24 hours before landing successfully in a fully serviceable condition. Remarkably, the aircraft was ready for relaunch just two days later, showcasing its rapid turnaround capability.
Named after its 35-meter wingspan, the PHASA-35 was designed by BAE Systems subsidiary Prismatic to operate above weather systems and conventional air traffic. It holds the potential to serve as a persistent and stable platform for ultra-long endurance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions.
The latest trials included the successful deployment of a new intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance payload: a software-defined radio developed by BAE Systems’ digital intelligence division. This payload was more than twice the weight of previous versions, demonstrating the aircraft’s enhanced carrying capacity.
Bob Davidson, CEO of BAE Systems’ Prismatic, celebrated the milestone achievement, saying: “These latest flight trials are a significant step forward in proving PHASA-35’s capability for operations, and a real moment of pride for our entire team. We’re committed to continuing to develop PHASA-35 at pace to make it available for operational activity as soon as 2026.”
At Prismatic’s facility in Alton, Hampshire, UK, a next-generation PHASA-35 model has been constructed. This iteration features over twice the solar power generation and energy storage capacity of its predecessor, enabling longer and more complex missions in the stratosphere, set to begin next year.
Dave Holmes, managing director of FalconWorks at BAE Systems, said: “These latest trials draw on a huge amount of collaboration between Prismatic, the wider BAE Systems business and industry partners, including Honeywell and the UK Met Office. They demonstrate the credibility and capability of the system for operational use.”
As part of FalconWorks, the advanced R&D arm of BAE Systems’ air sector, the PHASA-35 team will now analyse data from these recent trials to further refine and mature this groundbreaking technology.
