Dual-Use Architecture with HAPS for defense, security, and sovereignty in the Amazon

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5902/2357797597899

Keywords:

HAPS, Amazon, Dual-use technologies, Defense, Technological sovereignty

Abstract

The Amazon faces unique challenges related to territorial surveillance, environmental monitoring, connectivity, and the protection of critical infrastructure, requiring technological solutions capable of simultaneously addressing civilian and military demands. In this context, this paper analyzes the potential of High Altitude Platform Stations (HAPS) as a dual-use infrastructure for defense, security, and regional development in the Amazon. The research adopts a qualitative approach based on a structured narrative literature review and documentary analysis of technical standards, regulatory frameworks, and national and international innovation support mechanisms. The results indicate that the integration of HAPS, Low Earth Orbit (LEO) satellites, distributed sensing, onboard artificial intelligence, and post-quantum cryptography provides a technologically consistent architecture for enhancing environmental monitoring, resilient communications, and distributed data processing. Furthermore, the study shows that the convergence of innovation funding mechanisms, the Brazilian Defense Industrial Base, and the innovation ecosystem of the Manaus Free Trade Zone creates favorable conditions for developing this capability domestically. It is concluded that HAPS can become a strategic dual-use infrastructure, contributing simultaneously to technological sovereignty, Amazon protection, and sustainable regional development.

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Author Biographies

Manoel Fernandes Amaral Filho, Universidade Federal do Amazonas

Advogado; Pesquisador; Coronel Veterano do Exército Brasileiro; Doutorando em Engenharia Elétrica, Universidade Federal do Amazonas, Manaus, AM, Brasil.

 

Edison Pignaton de Freitas, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul

Graduado pelo Instituto Militar de Engenharia; Graduado em Ciências Jurídicas e Sociais pela Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul; Mestrado e Doutorado em Computação pela Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul; Pós-Doutorado em Engenharia Elétrica pela Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Porto Alegre, RS, Brasil.

Bruno Costa Marinho, Instituto de Pesquisas do Exército na Amazônia,Instituto de Pesquisas do Exército na Amazônia

Graduado em Ciências Militares pela Academia Militar das Agulhas Negras; Graduado em Direito pela Universidade Estácio de Sá; Mestre em Direito Ambiental pela Universidade do Estado do Amazonas; Doutor em Propriedade Intelectual e Inovação pelo Instituto Nacional da Propriedade Industrial; Professor Colaborador da Universidade do Estado do Amazonas; Pesquisador do Laboratório de Ciências Militares da Escola de Comando e Estado-Maior do Exército; Chefe, Instituto de Pesquisas do Exército na Amazônia, Manaus, AM, Brasil.

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Published

2026-10-02

Issue

Vol. 17 No. 3 (2026): Publicação Contínua - Dossiê "Desafios Tecnológicos para a Construção da Defesa e Segurança no Sul Global"

Section

Artigos Dossiê

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