Elbit Systems has performed a series of demonstration flights with its Hermes 900 unmanned air vehicle for the Philippine air force, as the service evaluates the medium-altitude, long-endurance type.
An evolution of the Hermes 450 tactical UAV, the 1,100kg (2,420lb) Hermes 900 can operate at more than 30,000ft while carrying a large sensor payload totalling 300kg. With a 15m (49.2ft) wingspan, it also can be flown in adverse weather conditions.
The Hermes 900 is already operational with the Israeli air force, and has been sold to Brazil, Colombia and Switzerland.
Elbit also has developed a version optimised for maritime patrol missions, capable of carrying a sensor package totalling 350kg, including a maritime surveillance radar, automatic identification system, electro-optical/infrared sensor and electronic surveillance equipment. A satellite communication fit enables the aircraft to be operated at extended ranges, as far as 1,000nm (1,850km) from shore, according to Elbit.
Source: FlightGlobal.com
