Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd
IAI Eitan
The IAI Eitan, also known as the Heron TP, is a high‑altitude, long‑endurance unmanned aerial vehicle developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for both military and civilian applications. Its development began in the early 2000s as a successor to the proven Heron series, aiming to provide greater payload capacity, extended range, and improved survivability. The aircraft made its maiden flight in 2007 and entered operational service with the Israeli Air Force in 2009, later being exported to several allied nations.
Key features include a wingspan of 39 meters, a maximum take‑off weight of 5.5 tonnes, and an endurance of up to 60 hours, allowing continuous surveillance over vast areas. Powered by a single turboprop engine, the Eitan can carry up to 1.5 tonnes of payload, supporting synthetic‑aperture radar, electro‑optical/infrared sensors, signals‑intelligence suites, and even lightweight armaments. Its modular fuselage facilitates rapid reconfiguration for reconnaissance, maritime patrol, or communications relay missions.
The Eitan’s significance lies in its blend of endurance, versatility, and payload capability, setting new standards for strategic UAV platforms. It has reshaped intelligence‑gathering doctrines, enabling persistent, high‑resolution situational awareness while reducing risk to personnel and operational costs.
Key features include a wingspan of 39 meters, a maximum take‑off weight of 5.5 tonnes, and an endurance of up to 60 hours, allowing continuous surveillance over vast areas. Powered by a single turboprop engine, the Eitan can carry up to 1.5 tonnes of payload, supporting synthetic‑aperture radar, electro‑optical/infrared sensors, signals‑intelligence suites, and even lightweight armaments. Its modular fuselage facilitates rapid reconfiguration for reconnaissance, maritime patrol, or communications relay missions.
The Eitan’s significance lies in its blend of endurance, versatility, and payload capability, setting new standards for strategic UAV platforms. It has reshaped intelligence‑gathering doctrines, enabling persistent, high‑resolution situational awareness while reducing risk to personnel and operational costs.
Classification
Dimensions
- Length
- 15 metre
- Height
- 5.6 metre