Elbit Systems, a designer and developer of systems for aerospace and C4ISR applications, has been recognized with two awards in the 2024 Airforce Technology Excellence Awards for its product launches and strategic investments, underscoring its commitment to advancing defense technology and maintaining a competitive edge in the global market. 

The Airforce Technology Excellence Awards celebrate the greatest achievements and innovations in the Defense industry, with a special focus on the Airforce. Powered by GlobalData’s business intelligence, the Awards recognize the people and companies that are driving change in the industry. 

Elbit Systems won the Product Launches award for introducing the Hermes™ 650 Spark and FAST Capsule, which showcase innovative capabilities in unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The company received the Investments award for its substantial research and development (R&D) investment, driving significant growth and profitability. 

Hermes™ 650 Spark and FAST Capsule: Revolutionizing UAS capabilities 

Elbit Systems has solidified its position as a leader in defense technology through the successful launch of groundbreaking products like the Hermes™ 650 Spark and the FAST Capsule. The Hermes™ 650 Spark, a next-generation unmanned aerial system (UAS), is a testament to Elbit’s dedication to innovation. This state-of-the-art UAS offers: 

Hermes™ 650 Spark
Credit: Elbit Systems

Autonomous Operation: Designed for autonomous missions, the Hermes™ 650 Spark reduces the need for constant human intervention and allows for more efficient operations. 

High Payload Capacity: With a remarkable useful load of 260kg, the UAS can accommodate multiple payload configurations, including high-quality electro-optics, radar, and SIGINT, without compromising flight endurance. 

Compliance with NATO Standards: The system adheres to NATO STANAG 4671, ensuring interoperability and reliability in international defense operations. 

Wide Flight Envelope: The UAS excels in medium altitude long endurance (MALE) missions, with features like automatic takeoff and landing (ATOL) and auto-taxi capability from short runways. 

Increased Range and Exceptional Safety Standards: With an extended endurance of up to 24 hours and the ability to execute long missions within SATCOM range, the Hermes™ 650 Spark is engineered for safety, survivability, and efficiency. 

The FAST Capsule, on the other hand, integrates the Skylark III UAS and SkyStriker Loitering Munition, showcasing Elbit’s ability to combine intelligence and strike capabilities into a single, efficient package. The Skylark III is equipped with advanced intelligence-gathering sensors and can operate in GPS-denied environments, while the SkyStriker LM offers high-precision strike capabilities. This integration allows both platforms to be stored, launched, and controlled by the same equipment and crew, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing logistical burdens. 

Strategic investments in R&D: Driving growth and profitability 

Elbit Systems’ strategic investment in R&D has been a key driver of its remarkable growth and profitability. In 2023, the company invested $424 million in R&D, resulting in a significant backlog increase of $2.7 billion and sales reaching $6 billion. This substantial investment underscores Elbit’s focus on developing a comprehensive portfolio tailored to the unique needs of each customer, ensuring bespoke solutions that address strategic challenges. 

The company’s growth is further supported by its extensive global presence, with subsidiaries in key markets such as the US, UK, Germany, and Australia. This global reach enables Elbit Systems to maintain its leadership across various operational fields and adapt to the increasing demand for security solutions driven by geopolitical tensions worldwide. 

Company Profile 

Headquartered in Haifa, Israel, Elbit Systems designs and develops systems and equipment for aerospace and command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR). The company offers advanced electro-optics and countermeasures systems, unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) and unmanned surface vessels, military aircraft, night vision systems, airborne systems, and helicopter systems, aerostructures and systems, helmet-mounted systems, vehicle systems, munitions, and land and naval systems. Its products and systems are used by military, homeland security, medical instrumentation, defense, and commercial aviation customers. 

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