New features include improved communication channels and more powerful engine performance

Elbit Systems' Hermes® 450 has dominated the UAV scene and been a major player in counter terrorism operations for years. And it keeps on getting better.

The feature-packed UAV system has a solid performance record and is the primary UAV system for the Israel Defense Forces and was selected for the U.K's WATCHKEEPER program, the largest such program in Europe. It is used extensively in armies worldwide, including active war zones such as Iraq and Afghanistan. So far, the Hermes® 450 has accumulated over 150,000 operational flight hours with an exceptional reliability record – the system holds the best record among all operational UAV Systems worldwide for low mishaps rate due to its unique design architecture.

The Hermes® 450 UAV system now provides new additional features that enhance its mission effectiveness and range of operational capabilities: The air vehicle is equipped with a modified engine that enables increased flight altitudes up to 20,000 feet, capabilities to take off from higher altitudes, quieter operation and the capability to carry more payload weight.

The Hermes® 450 UAV system is now equipped with automatic take off and landing enhanced with an automatic taxiing and braking system . In addition, the communication data link range is extended to 250 km allowing for better operational flexibility, to provide much larger coverage area for ISTAR missions . In terms of mission capabilities, the system features COMINT mission capabilities in addition to the EO/IR and laser marker capabilities for effective ISTAR capabilities.