Elbit Systems is in Singapore with its Hermes 900 unmanned air vehicle, promoting its potential to be used as a “light" maritime patrol aircraft.
Hard to miss in the exhibit hall, the 15m (50ft)-wingspan UAV is sure to catch the eye of potential customers.
While it will not replace manned MPAs, it can offer a scaled performance in this role, says Elad Aharonson, executive vice-president and general manager of Elbit’s ISTAR division.
The type has a 350kg (770lb) payload capacity and is integrated with satellite communications capabilities. It is equipped with Finmeccanica T200 maritime radar and other electronic intelligence and electro-optical sensors, making it well-suited for the MPA role, says Aharonson.
Billypix
“The MPA role is very relevant here and in the South China sea” he adds. “For us the Asia-Pacific is very important.”
The Republic of Singapore Air Force operates the smaller Hermes 450 variant, which was delivered in 2007 and declared fully operational in 2015.
Sales for the company in the Asia-Pacific in the last three financial quarters of 2015 were at a record high, which compensated for a drop in sales from Latin America, Elbit says.
The Hermes 900 was displayed during the last Singapore air show in 2014 as it competed with the Israel Aerospace Industries Super Heron for a Swiss contest, which the Hermes 900 ultimately won. A contract was signed by Berne in November, and deliveries are expected within two years, Aharonson says.
Get all the latest news, analysis and opinions from Singapore Airshow on our dedicated show page
Source: Flight Daily News
