Defense electronics firm Elbit Systems Ltd. (Nasdaq: ESLT; TASE: ESLT) said today that it had successfully completed the maiden flight of its newest unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), and following additional tests, will begin production of the plane.
The new UAV is the Hermes 900, based on the Hermes 450.The Hermes 450 has over 170,000 flight hours and is one of less than handful of UAVs in the world to cross the 100,000 operational flight hour's barrier.
Elbit says that the new Hermes 900 offers flight altitude of more than 30,000 feet, payload capacity of up to 300 kilograms, and has flight capabilities in adverse weather conditions. It also includes innovative avionics and electronic systems and a silent engine, as well as systems required for flight in a combined civil and unmanned aviation area.
According to Elbit Systems UAS Division co-general manager Haim Kellerman, Elbit Systems is enhancing its production abilities in order to meet the growing demand of the new addition vehicle.
Elbit Systems shares closed at $63.32 per share on Friday. It has risen from $46.48 over the course of the year.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on December 14, 2009
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