ISLAMABAD, April 20: Although the Solar Surveillance Plane is the technology of the future and will be used all over the world within 20 to 30 years, two students of the Bachelor of Science (BS) have already manufactured it.

This means that soon, a third world country such as Pakistan would be able to use the technology to improve the security situation.

The student of BS Electrical Engineering (eighth semester), Mohammad Arslan Rafique, while talking to Dawn, said the plane had a 20-watt module and a long battery life with advanced technology.

The other student, Mohammad Salman, said the solar surveillance plane had the ability to carry an extra weight of about 1kg and a long flying time (90 minutes), and was powered by solar energy. A clear weather with bright sunlight could increase the flight time even further, he added.

“A high definition camera is installed on the plane which provides live video streaming from a 2km range during the flight. The wireless control is very strong, due to which the plane can easily be controlled and can fly at low altitude,” he said.

Mohammad Arslan said the plane could be used to find suspects during a gathering, and in case of any mishap, they could be used to chase the suspects.

In view of the increasing terrorism incidents, he said the plane could be used to assure peace. The plane could also assist during the elections in monitoring the surroundings of polling stations.

Both students have been studying in Riphah International University and obtained 2nd position in the “1st Pakistan Renewable Energy Resources Show 2013” organised on April 10, 2013. The show focused on Renewable Energy Theme, and students from all over Pakistan were invited to present their projects.