Yavne-based security company Aeronautics today reported that it had sold its Dominator XP UAV long-range system for intelligence missions to Mexico. The company did not state the price for the deal, but defense market sources estimated it at $20-30 million. Aeronautics develops and manufactures intelligence systems and UAVs.
This is Aeronautics first sale of the Dominator XP; up until now, it has used the system to provide services to various customers around the world. Israeli marketing company Balaam Security mediated the deal between Aeronautics and the Mexican authorities. The deal was signed six months ago, but is being revealed only now with the delivery of the systems to the security authorities in Mexico.
The Dominator XP is based on the manned twin-engine DA-42 developed in Austria. Aeronautics says that because it is a civilian plane converted into a UAV in recent years, it is more reliable and has lower maintenance costs than other UAVs. The plane has advanced avionics, and is designed for a range of military uses, due to its ability to carry advanced technology systems, including those used to collect intelligence.
"This is the showcase of Aeronautics' developments in recent years," said Aeronautics CEO Amos Matan. "The deal with Mexico is the first in which we are exporting the UAV, not just leasing it, and I have no doubt that after it is installed in Mexico, we'll market it in other countries."
Aeronautics is controlled by the KCPS, Viola Private Equity, and Bereshit funds. Efforts have been made in recent months to sell the company to a strategic investor.
Published by Globes [online], Israel business news - www.globes-online.com - on September 29, 2015
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