India has launched an ambitious defence technology programme to develop indigenous stratospheric airships capable of carrying out long-duration surveillance and intelligence missions, with several private sector companies being considered for the high-tech project.
The initiative, led by the Directorate of Operations (Remote) of the Indian Air Force (IAF), aims to create Air Ship-based High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (AS-HAPS) systems that can operate at altitudes above 20 kilometres.
These advanced platforms are expected to bridge the gap between high-altitude drones and low Earth orbit satellites by providing continuous monitoring, communication support and intelligence-gathering capabilities.
₹15,000 Crore Project Under Make in India
The AS-HAPS project is being developed under the Ministry of Defence’s Make-I procurement category, under which the government can provide funding support of up to 70% of research and development costs.
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the project in February, with the overall programme estimated to cost around ₹15,000 crore, including development expenses and procurement of systems.
The government plans to select at least two private sector development partners based on their technical capabilities and financial strength.
Several Indian aerospace companies have already been approached to participate in the programme.
Airships to Provide Satellite-Like Surveillance
The proposed stratospheric airships will operate at over 20 km altitude, positioning them between high-altitude unmanned aerial vehicles that typically operate around 12 km and satellites in low Earth orbit at 500–2,000 km.
Unlike satellites that move continuously around the Earth, these platforms can remain over a specific region for extended periods, allowing persistent surveillance.
The systems will be equipped with advanced sensors, including optical surveillance equipment and radar systems, to monitor areas of strategic interest.
They will also support electronic intelligence gathering and long-range communication networks by transmitting data between ground systems and satellites.
The airships are expected to remain operational for months at a stretch while being remotely controlled and capable of moving towards specific areas when required.
Government Pushes Indigenous Defence Technology
The government is also focusing on developing key components, including sensors and surveillance equipment, within India to reduce dependence on foreign technology.
While no Indian private company has yet demonstrated a fully operational AS-HAPS capability, government support is expected to encourage companies to invest in the emerging technology.
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has already conducted experimental trials of high-altitude airship technology. In May 2025, DRDO successfully tested an airship carrying an instrumental payload at an altitude of around 17 km over Madhya Pradesh.
Global Race for High-Altitude Platforms
Countries around the world have been exploring high-altitude airships and pseudo-satellite technologies for defence and communication applications.
Europe is developing the EUROHAPS programme, while French-Italian aerospace company Thales Alenia Space is working on the Stratobus project, which aims to demonstrate a similar platform in the coming years.
The United States has also tested high-altitude airship technologies, although no operational system is currently deployed.
China is believed to have an active high-altitude airship programme, with several high-altitude balloon activities reported globally. Analysts believe Beijing is working towards more advanced systems capable of military applications.
A New Capability for India’s Defence Forces
The development of indigenous stratospheric airships could provide India with a new layer of surveillance capability, combining the flexibility of drones with the endurance of satellites.
The project is expected to strengthen border monitoring, maritime surveillance, communication networks and intelligence operations while supporting India’s push for advanced defence manufacturing under the Make in India initiative.
