【Objective】In order to enhance the 3D coverage capability of wireless heterogeneous sensor networks (HWSN), a 3D deployment method based on improved honey badger optimization algorithm (IHBA) is proposed.【Method】Firstly, combined with the adaptive fruit fly optimization algorithm, the random search ability of the algorithm is enhanced, which is convenient for the algorithm to obtain the global optimal solution. Then, the strategy of replacing the worst individual is introduced to avoid the low adapting individual to occupy the population position and improve algorithm convergence speed. In the meantime, new individuals are introduced to improve the population diversity and avoid the individual prematurity of the algorithm.【Result】This algorithm is applied to the coverage optimization of HWSN, and the network coverage is improved by 18.1% compared with the standard Honey Badger algorithm.【Conclusion】The simulation results show that the algorithm converges faster, can effectively improve the network coverage capability of wireless heterogeneous sensors, and the node distribution of the whole network is more uniform.