HAIFA, Israel, Jan. 3 (UPI) -- An unidentified country in the Americas has ordered medium-altitude unmanned aerial systems from Israel's Elbit Systems Ltd. for security missions.
Elbit said the order for its Hermes 900 is worth about $50 million. Included in the order are universal ground control stations for the aircraft, satellite communications systems and advanced payload systems.
"We are very proud that yet another customer has selected the Hermes 900, following orders by the Israeli (military) and Chile," said Elad Aharonson, general manager of Elbit's UAS Division.
"Hermes 900 is establishing its position as a world-leading UAS for intelligence missions, as well as perimeter and security missions.
"An added value is the unique advantage of the common ground control station for both the Hermes 900 and the Hermes 450 array, allowing enhanced operational flexibility and cost effectiveness."
The Hermes 900 is a long-endurance aircraft with a maximum altitude of 30,000 feet. It weighs more than 2,000 pounds and has a maximum speed of 140 mph.
Elbit, which said delivery will be over the coming year, didn't specify how many systems were ordered.
