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| PULSMLRS and the Hermes 900 UAV |
An unnamed European country has placed an order for the PULS multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) and the Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) from the Israeli company Elbit Systems. This significant defense acquisition, valued at approximately $335 million, includes a three-and-a-half-year contract period. The deal encompasses not only the PULS MLRS but also the necessary missiles to equip these systems. However, the exact quantity of PULS systems and Hermes 900 drones to be supplied remains undisclosed, adding a layer of strategic ambiguity to the transaction.
The Hermes 900, developed by Elbit Systems, is a versatile and robust all-weather tactical UAV designed for aerial reconnaissance, surveillance, and patrolling missions. Since its first flight in December 2009, the Hermes 900 has been widely adopted by over 20 customers globally, reflecting its reliability and effectiveness in various operational environments. The drone's capabilities have been continuously enhanced, with several modifications introduced since it began mass production in Israel in 2011. This UAV has proven its mettle in diverse missions, including its operational debut during Israel's "Protective Edge" operation in Gaza in July 2014.
The Hermes 900's global reach is evident in its adoption by various countries for different military and civilian applications. For instance, the Philippine Air Force received a full delivery of Hermes 900 and Hermes 450 UAS as part of a $175 million contract in August 2020. Each system includes multiple UAVs, a ground control system, and support equipment, highlighting the comprehensive nature of these acquisitions. Similarly, the Swiss procurement agency selected the Hermes 900 to replace its aging RUAG Ranger UAVs, with plans to integrate six Hermes 900 systems by 2019. This decision underscores the UAV's competitiveness against other models like the IAI Heron.
In addition to its military applications, the Hermes 900 has been deployed for maritime surveillance and patrol services. The European Maritime Safety Agency (EMSA) contracted a Portuguese company to use the Hermes 900 for long-endurance maritime surveillance, demonstrating its effectiveness in monitoring vast ocean areas and exclusive economic zones (EEZs). Iceland, for example, began using the Hermes 900 for maritime patrols in June 2019, enhancing its surveillance capabilities over its maritime territories. The Royal Thai Navy also ordered Hermes 900 Maritime UAVs to strengthen its blue water and littoral operations, showcasing the drone's versatility in both military and civilian maritime missions.
The Hermes 900's operational range and capabilities have been further enhanced through various upgrades and contracts. In April 2020, Elbit Systems received contracts worth $20 million from Latin American customers to upgrade their Hermes 900 UAVs. These upgrades included the integration of satellite communication systems and automatic take-off and landing capabilities, extending the UAV's operational range to over 1,000 km. Additionally, a $300 million contract with an unidentified Asian country and a $70 million contract with a Latin American country for Hermes 900 systems and intelligence gathering further highlight the UAV's global demand and operational prowess.
The Hermes 900's design and capabilities make it a valuable asset for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions across both land and maritime domains. With an endurance of over 30 hours and the ability to fly at altitudes up to 30,000 feet, the Hermes 900 excels in long-endurance missions. Its advanced payloads, including the SkEye Wide Area Surveillance System and SPECTRO XR multi-spectral Electro-Optic system, enhance its surveillance and operational capabilities. The UAV's open architecture and advanced visual, signal, and radar intelligence make it a competitive choice for various military and civilian applications.
In summary, the acquisition of PULS MLRS and Hermes 900 UAVs by an unnamed European country represents a strategic investment in advanced defense technologies. The Hermes 900's proven track record and global adoption underscore its effectiveness and versatility in various operational environments. As Elbit Systems continues to secure contracts for the Hermes 900, the UAV's role in enhancing surveillance, reconnaissance, and operational capabilities is set to grow, benefiting both military and civilian sectors worldwide.
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