Bae's solar drone achieves 24‑hour flight milestone
The British team of engineers leading the PHASA-35 unmanned aircraft project, developed by BAE Systems, has achieved a significant milestone in the advancement of stratospheric technology. The company has successfully completed an essential test of the aircraft.
Recent tests conducted at Spaceport America in New Mexico, USA, have shown that the solar-powered aircraft can remain airborne for 24 hours at an altitude of over 66,000 feet. BAE Systems highlights that this capability allows for rapid preparation for the next flight in just two days.
The aircraft powered by solar energy
PHASA-35, which features a wingspan of 115 feet, was tested to confirm its ability to fly, land, and quickly reconfigure between missions. Designed by BAE Systems' subsidiary, Prismatic Ltd, the aircraft can operate above regular air traffic and weather disturbances, making it suitable for long-term reconnaissance and observation missions.
Bob Davidson, President of Prismatic, emphasized that recent tests confirmed PHASA-35's ability to execute its planned tasks, marking a significant achievement for the team. The goal is to have the system operational by 2026. One of the recent tests included using a software-defined radio as a functioning sensor for reconnaissance missions, which weighed considerably more than previous payloads.
Even better performance in 2025
The team at Prismatic’s UK facility in Alton plans to deliver an enhanced model of the system by the end of the year. The new model is expected to have more than double the solar efficiency and energy storage capabilities, allowing for even more efficient missions in 2025.
Prismatic is part of FalconWorks, BAE Systems' research and development division in the aviation sector. Dave Holmes from FalconWorks emphasizes that collaboration with various BAE Systems divisions and industry partners contributed to the success of the recent tests, demonstrating the system's reliability for operational use. The team intends to use the test data for further technology optimization.
