Elbit Systems to supply IDF with Skylark mini UAS system

Elbit Systems Ltd will produce and provide the Artillery Corps of the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) with the Skylark 1Transitional Vertical Take-Off and Landing Small Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems (Skylark 1 eVTOL), combined with through-life maintenance services for all the IDF Ground Force’s STUAS systems (Skylark 1 & Skylark 3). Weighing up to 20kg, the new Skylark 1 eVTOL is a man-packed or vehicle-based platform offering the endurance and range of a fixed-wing STUAS with the capability to hover, take-off and land vertically. Combined with onboard analytical capabilities, the Skylark 1 eVTOL significantly expands the operations of tactical forces and enables fast deployment in order to organically perform Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. Under the contract, Elbit Systems will replace the Skylark 1 with the new system that will be integrated with the currently operational fleet used by the IDF Ground forces. STUAS from the Skylark family are in operational use in a dozens of countries around the globe. The Skylark family of UAS have been in operational service with the IDF since 2008. The newest member of the family, the Skylark I eVTOL, can weigh up to 20kg and is equipped with an electric motor and a VTOL kit for takeoff and landing. This new STUAS is ideal for dismounted, vehicle, man-packed or ship-based operation, designed to provide an organic airborne ISTAR capability for lower tactical echelons. It supports various applications including beyond the hill intelligence, target acquisition, force and convoy protection, border patrol, security operations, search & rescue (SAR) missions, environmental monitoring and counter-terrorism. Based on years of accumulated operational experience, the Skylark 1 eVTOL system is easy to operate (runway independent) and has a minimal logistic footprint. Its unique combination of features make it a force multiplier that provides combatant units with extensive, effective & efficient ISTAR capabilities. For Editorial Inquiries Contact: Editor Kym Bergmann at [email protected] For Advertising Inquiries Contact: Director of Sales Graham Joss at [email protected]