AeroVironment HAPS

AeroVironment HAPS is a division of AeroVironment, Inc., a company founded in 1971 and specializing in global defense technology. While broadly known for its unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), loitering munitions, and unmanned ground vehicles utilized by the U.S. Military, allied nations, and commercial industries for surveillance and reconnaissance, AeroVironment HAPS focuses specifically on the development of High-Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) platforms.

The core of AeroVironment HAPS’ offering is the Sunglider, a solar-powered HAPS designed for persistent, high-altitude operation. This platform provides capabilities bridging the gap between aircraft and satellites, offering long-duration surveillance, communications relay, and other data services. Recent developments include the AV_HALO unified software platform, intended to enhance operational advantages for next-generation systems.

While specific mission details are not publicly available, the Sunglider platform is positioned to provide cost-effective, persistent coverage for applications requiring extended loiter times and regional focus. This differentiates it from traditional satellite constellations which can be expensive to deploy and maintain.

AeroVironment HAPS leverages the parent company’s extensive experience in unmanned systems and aerospace engineering to offer a unique capability within the growing high-altitude platform market, serving both defense and commercial sectors with a focus on persistent, solar-powered aerial solutions.