Abu dhabi: Khaled Almarzooqi, Chief Executive Officer of Mira Aerospace, a subsidiary of Space42, announced that the company is set to launch an upgraded version of its high-altitude platform system (HAPS) by the end of the year. This development is part of a broader strategy to bolster the presence of national industries in space, aviation technologies, communications, and surveillance within the UAE.

According to Emirates News Agency, Almarzooqi made this statement during the first day of the Make it in the Emirates 2026 event. He highlighted that the upgraded HAPS will feature a wingspan of 30 metres, marking a significant enhancement from the current model's 18 metres. Mira Aerospace's participation in the event underscores its role in developing advanced technologies, particularly HAPS platforms with Emirati intellectual property.

The HAPS is described as a solar-powered unmanned aerial vehicle capable of operating at altitudes between 14 and 16 kilometres for over a week, with the potential for longer durations due to its solar energy reliance. Almarzooqi mentioned that while test flights have successfully lasted one week, extending beyond this period is currently restricted by regulatory challenges rather than technical ones. The company is actively seeking approvals for longer-duration tests both domestically and internationally.

Mira Aerospace's advancements are aligned with the objectives of the Make it in the Emirates initiative, which focuses on localising advanced industries. The technology is manufactured locally in the Al Dhafra region, reflecting the country's commitment to developing and producing cutting-edge aerospace technologies.