Technology manufacturer Prismatic is to commence prototype flight testing on its PHASA-35 (Persistent High Altitude Solar Aircraft) HALE UAV programme before the end of the year, with a first platform currently undergoing final stages of assembly.
Partnered with BAE Systems, the solar powered platform is intended to produce a ‘year round, low-cost persistent’ service based on long-life battery technology and lightweight solar cells, with design specifications including a 35m wingspan and 150kg payload.
‘Our 45m hangar [in Farnborough, UK] has the first aircraft coming together. All the structural parts are being built and we have the batteries installed and the