A major deal has recently been signed between the Indian Army and Elbit, according to reports in the country, in which 100 suicidal skimmers of the "Sky-Striker" type (Hebrew: Sharkark) were purchased by India. With a low acoustic signature, high flight speed and the ability to cover large areas, it can wait about two hours in the air to identify a target and act against it.
The skimmer, a remote-controlled electro-optical weapon, is 2.5 meters long and weighs 35 kilograms.
It is launched from a towed launcher or on a jeep, and its accuracy levels allow it to hit tanks, combat vehicles, soft vehicles, motorcycles in motion and even house windows.
Elbit has previously stated that the shark provides very precise hit and destroy capabilities of fortified positions and armored vehicles.
It makes it possible to hit the enemy from a distance, without seeing him, while preserving the possibility of canceling the mission and bringing the whistler home if civilians are identified near the target.
Against the background of the deteriorating stability of the border between India and Pakistan in the wake of the US withdrawal and the Taliban's takeover of Afghanistan, India's seems to be particularly enthusiastic about the new acquisition.
The Whistler, Archive Photo: Elbit Systems
"Today is a special day," the Indian presenter announces to his viewers.
"We have got a new technology that allows India not only to defend its borders but if it is also necessary to move to the other side, send skimmers and eliminate the targets."
In an article that was broadcast afterwards, an equally exciting article is heard that tells about the new capabilities.
"The Indian Ministry of Defense has agreed on a deal in which more than 100 suicide skimmers will be purchased to be used in missions. These skimmers, made by Elbit, can change the way an army defends and attacks. The skimmers are capable of carrying ammunition and attacking distant targets."
"India will now be able to carry out many more operations. The skimmers are capable of carrying a lot of explosives and hitting the target, without allowing the target to move due to its speed. This is an essential capability," one of the spokesmen noted in the article.