AS-HAPS Approved by DAC: High Altitude Pseudo Satellites for Indian Air Force Explained

Why in News?

e Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved the induction of Airship-Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellites (AS-HAPS) for the Indian Air Force.

Key Highlights:

AS-HAPS (Airship-Based High Altitude Pseudo Satellites) operate in the stratosphere, bridging the gap between UAVs and satellites. They are

• Solar-powered, unmanned aerial platforms
• Operate in the stratosphere (18–25 km above Earth)

They act as an intermediate system between:

• UAVs (drones) – lower altitude, short endurance
• Satellites – high altitude, expensive

Key Advantages:

• Long endurance (can stay operational for extended periods)
• Cost-effective compared to satellites