Elbit System is to introduce a new maritime configuration of the unmanned aircraft system (UAS), Hermes 900, for conducting unmanned patrol flights over ocean areas and enable visual identification of vessels at sea.
The new maritime variant will be unveiled at Aero-India 2013, which runs from 6-10 February at Yelahanka Air Force Station, Bangalore, India.
Capable of carrying a payload of up to 350kg, the new UAS maritime configuration payload suite includes a maritime surveillance radar, automatic identification system (AIS), an electro-optical multi-sensor payload and electronic surveillance systems.
Featuring aerodynamic efficiency and inverse synthetic aperture radar (ISAR) capabilities, the Maritime Hermes 900 system provides increased line-of-sight and satellite communications links and radio relay, which enable the operator to communicate effectively even with vessels at sea.
With the help of two redundant datalinks, Elbit’s command and control systems enable the operator to simultaneously control two UAS from a single ground control station.
Optimised for maritime mission and specific planning applications such as search-and rescue. The entire command and control can be operated onshore in a mobile shelter base, at sea in an indoor configuration or co-located in many locations.
Combined with Windward’s MarInt satellite-based maritime analytics system, the UAS can perform naval warfare (SSW), ship-shore operations, economical exclusion zones (EEZ) monitoring and control, coastal protection, surveillance and protection of vital assets such as oil rigs, anti-piracy operations and environmental monitoring.
Operators can use Hermes 900 UAS as a standalone system or combined with overall setup of aircraft, ships, shore or offshore-based sensors, as well as maritime control centres and headquarters.
Image: Elbit-built Maritime Hermes 900 UAS stationed at a base. Photo: courtesy of Elbit Systems.
