IAI Eitan (Heron TP)
Summary
| Category | Drone |
| Origin country | 🇮🇱 Israel |
| First flight | 1 January 2004 |
| Year of introduction | 2010 |
| Number produced | units |
Description
The IAI Eitan, also known as the Heron TP, is an advanced unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). It's one of the largest UAVs in operational use and reflects Israel's leading position in the drone industry.
The development of the Eitan was driven by the need for a more capable UAV in terms of range, payload, altitude, and endurance. The intention was to provide the Israeli Air Force (IAF) with a UAV that could conduct long-duration surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat missions.
The Eitan boasts a high-aspect-ratio wing which contributes to its extended endurance capabilities. One of the primary distinctions between the Eitan and its predecessor, the Heron I, is its size and engine. The Eitan uses a turboprop engine, giving it far more power and enabling it to carry a larger payload. It's powered by a single Pratt & Whitney PT6A turboprop engine which offers high reliability and efficiency. The Eitan is equipped with advanced avionics allowing it to operate in both controlled and uncontrolled airspace. The UAV's sensor suite is versatile, capable of holding a variety of intelligence-gathering equipment, including Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), Ground Moving Target Indicator (GMTI), and advanced electro-optical systems.
While primarily designed for reconnaissance and surveillance, the Eitan is capable of carrying a range of weapon systems, giving it strike capabilities. However, specific details about its weapon carriage and deployment capabilities remain classified.
The Eitan has been in service with the IAF since around 2010. Its extended range and endurance have made it particularly valuable for long-duration surveillance missions. Over its service life, it has participated in various operations and provided critical intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. Due to its strategic capabilities, exact operational details are often kept confidential.
While the base model of the Eitan is the most widely recognized, IAI has continually explored potential upgrades and variants tailored to specific customer needs. However, the exact specifications and capabilities of these variants are proprietary or classified.
Technical specifications
| Version: Eitan (Heron TP) | |
|---|---|
| Endurance | 36 hours |
| Maximum speed | 370 km/h (230 mph) |
| Wingspan | 26 m (85.3 ft) |
| Length | 14 m (45.9 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 12500 m (41011 ft) |
| Empty weight | 4650 kg (10251 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 5670 kg (12500 lbs) |
| Powerplant | 1 × Pratt & Whitney PT6A turboprop engine |
Photo of Eitan (Heron TP)
Credits: IAI