India 

Bengaluru's NewSpace Research & Technologies achieves a national record with its solar-powered High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS), flying for 27 hours at 26,000 feet. Supported by India's iDEX initiative, the breakthrough marks a leap in UAV capabilities, promising eco-friendly solutions for surveillance and communication.

Bengaluru-based NewSpace Research & Technologies (NRT) has propelled the Indian aerospace industry into new heights with its groundbreaking solar-powered High-Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS). This innovative drone, also referred to as a "pseudo-satellite," recently shattered the national record for the longest unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) flight, staying airborne for an impressive 27 hours.

Achieving an altitude of 26,000 feet during its test flight, this solar-powered marvel showcases India's growing capabilities in high-altitude operations, marking a significant advancement for the country's UAV technology.

Behind NRT's success lies the support of the Indian government's Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX) initiative, which provided vital funding and backing for the development of the HAPS platform. iDEX aims to nurture domestic innovation in the defense sector, and NRT's achievement stands as a testament to the potential of Indian companies when given the right support.

Looking ahead, the possibilities for HAPS technology in India are vast. These solar-powered drones hold promise for cost-effective and environmentally friendly solutions across various domains, including surveillance, communication, and environmental monitoring. The sky's the limit when it comes to potential applications.

NRT's milestone underscores the growing prowess of Indian aerospace companies. With HAPS at the forefront, we anticipate further exciting advancements in the realm of unmanned aerial vehicles in the years ahead.