Elbit Systems Ltd.
Elbit Hermes 450
The Hermes 450 is a medium‑size, multi‑mission unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by Elbit Systems Ltd. of Israel. Its roots trace back to the early 1990s, when the Israeli Defence Forces sought a reliable, long‑endurance platform for reconnaissance and target acquisition. The first flight occurred in 1995 and the system entered operational service in 1998, quickly becoming a cornerstone of Israel’s tactical UAV fleet and later exporting to more than 20 countries.
Key features include a wing‑span of 10.5 m, a maximum take‑off weight of 450 kg and an endurance of up to 20 hours, enabling persistent surveillance over large areas. Powered by a horizontally‑opposed piston engine, the Hermes 450 carries interchangeable payloads such as electro‑optical/infrared cameras, synthetic‑aperture radar and signals‑intelligence suites. Its autonomous flight‑control system provides waypoint navigation, automatic take‑off and landing, and a fail‑safe return‑to‑base mode. Ground‑control stations are fully mobile, supporting real‑time video streaming and data link encryption.
The aircraft’s significance lies in demonstrating how relatively modest UAVs can deliver strategic intelligence, combat support and border‑security capabilities. Its proven reliability has shaped modern UAV doctrine and driven further innovations in Elbit’s unmanned‑aircraft portfolio.
Key features include a wing‑span of 10.5 m, a maximum take‑off weight of 450 kg and an endurance of up to 20 hours, enabling persistent surveillance over large areas. Powered by a horizontally‑opposed piston engine, the Hermes 450 carries interchangeable payloads such as electro‑optical/infrared cameras, synthetic‑aperture radar and signals‑intelligence suites. Its autonomous flight‑control system provides waypoint navigation, automatic take‑off and landing, and a fail‑safe return‑to‑base mode. Ground‑control stations are fully mobile, supporting real‑time video streaming and data link encryption.
The aircraft’s significance lies in demonstrating how relatively modest UAVs can deliver strategic intelligence, combat support and border‑security capabilities. Its proven reliability has shaped modern UAV doctrine and driven further innovations in Elbit’s unmanned‑aircraft portfolio.
