UK funds flying broadband stations with power beamed from below
£70M ARIA program backs 18 projects aiming to keep connectivity aloft for a week
The UK's Advanced Research and Invention Agency (ARIA) is funding 18 projects to develop aircraft capable of operating in the stratosphere for reliable, cost-effective connectivity. These high-altitude pseudo-satellites (HAPS) aim to provide alternative communication to underserved areas, both in the UK and globally. The agency is allocating £70 million ($94 million) over three and a half years to tackle the power and reliability challenges of sustained operations above the UK.
This includes projects on enabling technologies, system integration and testing, and deployment and communications. Notable projects include Menapia's Carousel plan to produce a constellation of multi-rotor aircraft and Enduring Drone Networks' relay team of drones with production costs of £50,000 each. The agency's program director, Rico Chandra, aims for the UK to become the hub for this emerging industry by supporting unique and innovative ideas, such as aircraft powered by spinning wings and utilizing atmospheric gravity waves for extended endurance.
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