Defence TechnologyTESTTested
DRDO flight-trialled an indigenous high-altitude platform system reaching 21 km altitude
Agra, Uttar Pradesh6 Oct 2026
India conducted a flight trial of an indigenously developed High-Altitude Platform System (HAPS) developed by DRDO, announced by the Ministry of Defence on October 6, 2026. The experimental platform reached 21 km above mean sea level, stayed around 20 km altitude for over 30 minutes, transmitted real-time video/vehicle parameters to a ground control station, descended under command, and was recovered for post-flight data analysis.
Why it matters
A successful controlled and recovered stratospheric flight trial is a step toward long-endurance high-altitude platforms that could provide persistent surveillance and communications relay over borders and maritime areas.
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE)