Elbit Hermes 900

Summary

Category Drone
Origin country 🇮🇱 Israel
First flight9 December 2009
Year of introduction2012
Number produced200 units

Description

The Hermes 900 is a medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) unmanned aerial vehicle designed by Israel Aerospace Industries, a larger version than the Hermes 450. The 900 features a twin-boom, pusher propeller design and inverted V-tail.

Powered by a heavy fuel rotary engine, it can fly for over 36 hours at a maximum altitude of 9,100 meters. Payload capacity is 450 kg with an internal payload bay and external hardpoints. It carries an array of sensors including electro-optical, infrared, radar, signals and communications intelligence gathering systems.

The Hermes 900 operates remotely or autonomously using pre-programmed GPS waypoints. It provides persistent intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance capabilities over land and sea. Over 20 countries have acquired the Hermes 900, which has seen combat action in conflicts. Its long endurance and flexible payload make it effective for both military and civilian uses.

Technical specifications

Version: Hermes 900
Endurance36 hours
Maximum speed 220 km/h (137 mph)
Wingspan15 m (49.2 ft)
Length8.3 m (27.2 ft)
Service ceiling9100 m (29856 ft)
Empty weight950 kg (2094 lbs)
Max. takeoff weight1400 kg (3086 lbs)
Powerplant1 × Rotax 916, 160 kW

All operators

AzerbaijanBrazilCanadaSwitzerlandChileColombia • Europe • Iceland • IsraelMoroccoMexicoPhilippines

Photo of Hermes 900

Photo of Hermes 900