Israeli MoD signs $40 million in deals for Elbit Systems drones
Elbit’s THOR is a mini-UAS VTOL designed for a number of military applications and one possible platform that could match the contracts' needs. (Photo: Elbit Systems)
The deal will allow the Israeli Defence Force (IDF) to upgrade its operational capabilities in the field, particularly for intelligence gathering and targeted strikes.
The Israel Ministry of Defense (MoD) has announced that it has completed “several” contracts with Elbit Systems in a deal worth US$40 million.
The deal means that Elbit Systems will supply the IDF with several uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) designed for various missions, including targeted strikes and intelligence gathering.
Elbit Systems said it will supply UAS for intelligence collection, operating within ‘Seek and Strike; swarms, mission drones with advanced ISR capabilities and mini-drone-based strike solutions for urban missions. No specific models have been disclosed.
The company will also provide communication solutions for the uncrewed systems.
The UAS were developed by the MoD’s Directorate of Defence Research and Development (DDR&D) alongside the IDF’s ground forces and Elbit Systems.
Brig Gen Yehuda Almakias, head of the MoD’s DDR&D R&D department, said: “The UAS domain enables efficient, precise and scalable intelligence gathering and strike missions.”
Haim Delmar, executive VP and general manager C4I and cyber at Elbit Systems, added: “Contracts such as these demonstrate the increasing confidence in Elbit’s innovative Robotics and Autonomous Systems technology in general and especially our unique drone capabilities.”
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