An Israeli defense company, Elbit Systems, has secured a significant contract worth $120 million to provide its advanced Hermes 900 unmanned aerial system (UAS) for long-range maritime surveillance to an unnamed international client. This deal is emblematic of the rising demand for autonomous systems that can conduct extended missions over both land and sea.
The Hermes 900, known as the Kochav within the Israeli Defense Forces, is designed as a medium-altitude, long-endurance drone. It is capable of performing a variety of vital functions, including surveillance, intelligence gathering, and operational observations, making it a vital asset for military and defense operations.
Since its initial order in 2011, the Hermes 900 has garnered interest from over 20 partner countries, illustrating its reliability and versatility in diverse operational environments. Yoram Shmuely, the general manager of Elbit Systems Aerospace, expressed pride in the continued selection of the Hermes 900 by international clients, underscoring the trust customers place in their advanced solutions. Shmuely emphasized that this contract not only reflects operational excellence but also affirms the technological superiority of the Hermes 900 in supporting complex missions.
The Hermes 900 is designed for efficient operation with a ground crew consisting of just two personnel. The drone can carry a payload of 350 kilograms (772 pounds) and features dimensions that include a length of 8 meters (26 feet) and a wingspan of 15 meters (49 feet). The aircraft has a maximum takeoff weight of 1,180 kilograms (2,601 pounds).
Powered by a 210-horsepower Rotax 916 engine, the Hermes 900 reaches a top speed of 120 knots, equivalent to 37 kilometers or 23 miles per hour. It boasts an impressive service ceiling of 9,100 meters (29,856 feet) and a remarkable operational range of 9,000 kilometers (5,592 miles). With an endurance of up to 36 hours, the drone can be adapted for various combat scenarios, capable of carrying armaments including Spike fire-and-forget anti-tank/anti-personnel guided missiles.
This latest contract indicates not only the ongoing demand for sophisticated unmanned aerial capabilities but also underscores Elbit Systems’ commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its global customers in the defense landscape.
