IAI's maritime version of the Heron 1 UAV will replace Sea Scan patrol aircrafts to protect the coast and offshore gas installations.
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) is replacing its manned Sea Scan maritime patrol aircrafts, with the Israel Aerospace Industries Ltd. (IAI) (TASE: ARSP.B1) maritime version of the Heron 1 (Shoval) unmanned air vehicle systems (UAVs). The maritime Heron 1 system currently being displayed at IMDEX ASIA 2017 in Singapore.
The IAF has ordered additional Heron 1 UAV Systems equipped with a maritime radar and electro-optical payload that will make them more suitable for their growing role in carrying out maritime patrol and intelligence gathering missions on everyday bases.
The maritime model of Heron 1 comprises an advanced electro-optical payload - the MOSP, made by the TAMAM division of IAI and the lightweight airborne maritime surveillance radar made by its ELTA unit.
The maritime Herons will provide comprehensive protection of naval borders and strategic infrastructures, including, natural gas production installations, to meet the operational needs.
IAI EVP and General Manager of the Military Aircraft Group Shaul Shahar said, "The Heron 1 has proved its capability to perform long-range, long-endurance maritime patrol missions. Thanks to its unique features and upgraded payloads, the Heron 1 provides a better solution for the maritime patrol mission than currently exists at the IAF."