Elbit Systems is offering a newly upgraded version of its Hermes 90 unmanned air system to some potential customers, and expects to agree one contract before the end of the year.
Among the enhancements being promoted are a new mechanical catapult and an advanced net recovery system for aircraft, which Elbit has derived from Innocon’s Mini Falcon design.
With a 5m (16ft) wingspan and a maximum take-off weight of 115kg (253lb) – including a 25kg payload, the Hermes 90 is a low-cost tactical UAS. Operating endurance is up to 15h, service ceiling 15,000ft and operational range 54nm (100km).
UAS Dynamics, a wholly owned subsidiary of Elbit Systems of America, is also making an effort to sell the Hermes 90 to US customers.
Elbit’s main focus is on marketing its larger Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 designs, but it is still offering the Hermes 90 while evaluating the development of a vertical take-off and landing UAS that the company says will be bigger than some on the market.
According to an Elbit source, one design guideline for the company is to keep the VTOL system outside of the conditions of the international Missile Technology Control Regime.
Source: Flight Global