Summary
- AeroVironment flight-tested an upgraded Sunglider for commercial and government markets
- The new version, Horus A, can carry up to 150 lb of payload with 1.5 kW of power
- Horus A received airworthiness approval from the U.S. Army and FAA
- The flight demonstrated the ability to carry multiple payloads for the U.S. DoD and transmit real-time data
- AV aims to offer a robust connectivity solution for 5G and beyond with Sunglider through partnership with SoftBank
Article
AeroVironment (AV) has flight-tested an upgraded Sunglider called Horus A, which enhances its capabilities for commercial and government markets. This solar-powered UAS can carry up to 150 lb of payload with 1.5 kW of available power, setting industry-leading standards for stratospheric performance. Horus A features improvements in aircraft design, avionics, autonomy, and redundant systems for mission assurance. With airworthiness approval from the U.S. Army and an FAA Special Airworthiness Certificate, AV aims to deliver unrivaled payload capacity and persistence for stratospheric flight.
During a recent Horus A flight, AV demonstrated the ability to carry multiple payloads for the U.S. DoD and transmit real-time data, showcasing the viability of HAPS for government applications. The flight showcased advancements in various systems and validated new features like Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) and Tactical Grade Mesh Network radio. AV also displayed the platform’s ability to maneuver in adverse weather, ensuring a safe landing for future missions. Horus A’s capabilities include defense capabilities such as resilient communications, Assured Positioning, Navigation and Timing (APNT), Space Domain Awareness, long-endurance ISR, and deep sensing, enabling effective battlefield operations.
Supported by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense Research and Engineering, AV will continue to progress Horus A toward operational deployment. Through a partnership with SoftBank, the company aims to offer robust connectivity solutions in the realm of 5G and beyond with Sunglider. The platform’s satellite-based BLOS radio and advanced avionics and datalink suite will enable it to address critical defense capability gaps and enhance mission effectiveness. AV’s dedication to innovation in high-altitude systems and partnership with SoftBank highlight their commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions for commercial and government applications.
The successful flight of Horus A marks a milestone in AV’s stratospheric platform development, reinforcing the company’s leadership in solar-powered, high-altitude systems. By simultaneously operating SAR and Tactical Grade Mesh Network radio, AV demonstrated the platform’s versatility and adaptability to various mission requirements. The advancements in autonomy, redundancy, and maneuverability showcased during the flight highlight AV’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of stratospheric flight capabilities. With continued partnership and development efforts, AV aims to deliver unmatched payload capacity and endurance in the stratosphere, unlocking new possibilities for commercial and government applications.
AV’s collaboration with SoftBank has resulted in significant progress in enhancing Sunglider’s capabilities, setting new standards for stratospheric flight and payload capacity. As the company continues to develop and refine Horus A for operational deployment, it aims to address critical defense capability gaps and deliver innovative solutions for various applications. The advancements in autonomy, payload interoperability, and performance enhancements showcased during the recent flight demonstrate AV’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of high-altitude systems technology. With a focus on delivering unmatched connectivity solutions in the realm of 5G and beyond, AV and SoftBank are poised to revolutionize the capabilities of stratospheric platforms like Sunglider, paving the way for a new era of aerial operations.
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