The HAPS Alliance Defense Applications Working Group has released the first technology readiness level (TRL) framework for HAPS to help defense programs integrate stratosphere-based technologies. Innovation is vital to successful outcomes in defense, and this framework will help enable innovation while ensuring appropriate risk management, safety, and evaluation consistency.
The Defense Applications Working Group (DAWG) has outlined the framework in a new white paper that allows leaders to evaluate high altitude platform stations (HAPS) technologies for research and development, acquisition, and employment. Other aerospace technologies leverage TRL, and the DAWG has drawn upon the best practices recommended by many of these to introduce a new HAPS TRL scale. A detailed explanation helps leaders understand the rationale for the scale and why precise steps, such as flight testing, are required at specific times. The white paper also provides resources to start applying the scale, including links to other HAPS Alliance papers.
“The TRL Framework represents a massive collaborative effort by members of the DAWG,” commented Kyle Doverspike, Chair of the DAWG and Program Management Lead, Operational Projects at Aerostar. “I’m extremely proud of the result and am confident that it will serve as the jumping-off point for increased utilization and standardization of HAPS in the defense industry. The DAWG already has several follow-up papers planned to continue to support defense organizations in shepherding HAPS technologies to operational readiness.”
Along with presenting and explaining the scale, the whitepaper explores the following topics:
- How HAPS can be used in multiple defense applications.
- A look at technology readiness levels (TRL) and how it is used in defense.
- A look at established defense TRL frameworks, already in use, relevant to HAPS.
- TRL metrics that should be used when assessing HAPS.
- The unique critical technology elements (CTEs) that influence HAPS TRL.
The HAPS Alliance encourages everyone in defense leadership to read the whitepaper. It’s free to download, and no email is required.