Israel’s Elbit Systems unveiled a new unmanned aerial vehicle called the Hermes 650 Spark on 21 February 2024.
The system is a tactical UAV that delivered medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE) UAV capabilities, according to Elbit, which stated in its press release, “As the latest addition to the highly acclaimed Hermes family, the Hermes 650 Spark expands the operational flight envelope with next-generation multi-mission capability, versatility, and survivability”, adding that it “delivers exceptional payload capacity with increased range, flight speed, endurance, and operational efficiency”.
Unlike Elbit’s previous Hermes 450 and Hermes 900 UAVs, which are powered by a pusher propeller, the Hermes 650 Spark design is very similar to that of a conventional manned high-wing monoplane with the engine in the nose.
The Hermes 650 Spark has a maximum take-off weight of 650 kg and a payload capacity of 260 kg. It features eight modular storage stations, accommodating large payload bays in the fuselage and six hardpoints on the wings. This multi-payload capability, Elbit noted, can simultaneously integrate high-quality electro-optical sensors, radar, signals intelligence equipment and other advanced payloads.
According to Elbit, the Hermes 650 Spark can carry payloads of up to 120 kg on full fuel capacity without compromising its flight endurance, which is stated to be up to 24 hours.
While the Hermes 650 Spark has a line-of-sight range of 300 km, it can execute longer-range missions using satellite communications. It has a service ceiling of 22,000 ft (6,706 m) and a speed range of 55-120 kt (102-222 km/h).
Other features of the UAV include automatic take-off and landing (ATOL) and auto-taxi capability from short runways, a design that minimises lifecycle costs, a wide flight envelope and “exceptional safety, survivability, and immunity standards”. The system is compliant with NATO STANAG 4671, which is intended to allow UAVs to operate in NATO nations’ airspace.
