Aeronautics to upgrade Finland's small UAS fleet as country cements NATO entry
Finland selected the Orbiter 2 in 2012, ordering 180 aircraft across 45 systems. (Photo: Finnish Defence Forces)
Israeli UAV manufacturer Aeronautics has signed a contract with the Finnish Defence Forces to upgrade the country's Orbiter 2 mini-UAS fleet.
Aeronautics has signed a mid-life upgrade contract with the Finnish Defense Forces (FDF) for its in-service Orbiter 2 Mini UAS fleet.
Aeronautics will provide the customer with a comprehensive package that includes a full suite of sensors, avionics, and data-processing systems to enhance system performance.
The contract will also involve a transfer of know-how, increasing self-sufficiency, and underpinning maintenance and support capabilities over ten years.
Related Articles
Elbit selected by Finland for radio comms contract
General Atomics offers two UAS to Ukraine for a dollar
Aeronautics inks agreement for producing Orbiter 4 UAVs in Thailand
'We are delighted to be reinforcing our relationship with the Finnish Defence Forces through this new contract,' said Matan Perry, VP marketing and sales at Aeronautics. 'This mid-life upgrade of the Orbiter 2 will significantly extend its lifespan, assuring the FDF high-quality, cost-efficient, tactical ISR capabilities for the next decade.'
According to Shephard Defence Insight, in May 2012, Finland's MoD selected the Orbiter 2 for a 20-year programme to equip, train and support tactical ground forces. As part of the contract, worth a then $31 million, Aeronautics would provide up to 45 Orbiter systems, comprising up to 180 uncrewed aircraft.
More from Air Warfare
-
![NATO’s E-3A fleet more important than ever, says force commander]()
NATO’s E-3A fleet more important than ever, says force commander
NATO’s E-3A fleet will have been in service for more than half a century by the time of their expected retirement but a boost to the capability and conflict elsewhere have highlighted their importance.
-
![NATO progresses effort to replace E-3A AWACS fleet]()
NATO progresses effort to replace E-3A AWACS fleet
NATO’s E-3A AWACS fleet has been scheduled for retirement from 2035. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has been leading the Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC) project to develop new options for future surveillance and control capabilities, based on future technology and requirements.
-
![Singapore’s H225M and CH-47F helicopters attain full operational capability]()
Singapore’s H225M and CH-47F helicopters attain full operational capability
Both helicopter types will provide a step change in Singapore’s helicopter lift capability.
-
![Lockheed beats out Northrop on $17 billion US missile contract]()
Lockheed beats out Northrop on $17 billion US missile contract
The Next Generation Interceptor and accompanying radars will play a key role in protecting the US against long-range ballistic missile threats.
