A system installed on Elbit's Hermes 900 UAV will enable detection and rescue at great distances, even in inclement weather • Innovative technology is already being used worldwide
Hermes 900 // Photo: Elbit Systems
Elbit Systems today unveiled a life-saving capability for the Israeli Hermes 900 UAV for maritime patrol. Through a combination of detection and detection capabilities, in addition to rescue and inflatable rafts and the ability to accurately cast search and rescue, the UAV can perform long-range search and rescue missions. This type of UAV has recently been delivered to a Southeast Asian company customer.
Photo: Elbit Systems
The purpose of the Hermes 900 Marine Tour is to overcome the most challenging maritime rescue challenge. Severe weather conditions and short flight duration most often limit the search and rescue capabilities of helicopters or manned aircraft. The UAV is capable of flying more than 24 hours, in all weather conditions, day and night, significantly increasing the possibility of saving lives.
The UAV is capable of carrying four inflatable rafts under its wings, which can carry six people each. In addition, it carries a marine radar that allows locating situations involving survivors. Once a rescue-detection situation is detected, an electro-optic observation system is activated over the UAV for visual detection of survivors, and a quick calculation of the dumping location is performed, allowing the UAV to cast the inflatable lifeboats from a height of only 600 feet, accurately and safely, The inflating of the rafts that begins with the detachment from the UAV is perfect upon landing near the survivors.
Elbit notes that, in addition to the naval radar, the UAV carries an electro-optic charger, satellite communications, and signal reception systems. Earlier this year, the British Coast Guard announced that it would acquire the UAV and about a year ago, the EU Maritime Defense Agency also began providing UAV services for maritime patrol to the EU countries through the Israeli UAV.
