UVision develops modular aerial launcher for its Hero-120 loitering munitions

Israeli loitering munition specialist UVision announced the launch on 5 June 2025 of an airborne launch system its Hero-120 loitering munition, allowing the weapon to be easily integrated onto a variety of utility and attack helicopters.

Developed in collaboration with US-based defence integrators Fulcrum Concepts and Mistral Inc, the new launch configuration allows rotary-wing platforms to deploy the Hero-120 without the need for deep integration into the aircraft’s avionics or fire control systems. This modular approach enables rapid adaptation and deployment and reduces both cost and integration time, making the system suitable for a wide array of current helicopter models as well as future vertical lift programmes.

The new helicopter launch capability provides a range of tactical benefits, including the ability to hand over control of the Hero loitering munitions to ground forces for beyond-line-of-sight, enhanced target engagements, along with improved interoperability between air and land units. The system supports swappable warheads and payloads, enabling on-the-fly mission adaptation to address either armoured or soft targets or to conduct intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations. UVision says the system is compatible with a wide variety of Western and NATO-standard helicopters, from legacy platforms to next-generation rotorcraft, allowing for broad operational integration without requiring major aircraft modifications.

“This is a breakthrough in rotary-wing lethality,” Dr Ran Gozali, CEO of UVision, was quoted as saying in a company press release. “For the first time helicopters can provide multiple forces across the battlefield with loitering munitions, enabling real-time target transfer and expanding the range of mission capabilities – all without costly aircraft modifications.”

The Hero-120 is a mid-range loitering munition designed for high-precision strikes against armoured vehicles, soft targets and other high-value threats. It is equipped with a multi-purpose warhead and supports additional payload configurations, delivering pinpoint accuracy and controlled lethality from the air.

The new helicopter launcher builds on UVision’s experience with airborne deployment of loitering munitions, including successful test campaigns and integrations with international partners.

“These systems have been validated under diverse operational conditions, demonstrating their reliability, effectiveness, and tactical flexibility when launched from rotary-wing platforms,” UVision stated. “Emphasising modularity and adaptability, the Hero-120 is deployed using mission-configured launch systems that allow for rapid integration on a broad range of helicopters, making it a practical solution for special operations forces, expeditionary missions and conventional units alike.”