HAIFA, Israel, 5 Jan. 2012. Elbit Systems Ltd. (NASDAQ:ESLT) won a $50 million contract to supply its Hermes 900 unmanned aircraft systems to a government office in the Americas for perimeter security missions. The project, spanning roughly one year, also includes Universal Ground Control Stations (UGCS), Elbit Systems Electro-Optics Elop's advanced DCoMPASS payload systems, and satellite communication systems. 

The precursor to the Hermes 900 unmanned aerial system (UAS), the Hermes 450 is considered the backbone of the Israel Defense Forces' UAS operations, says a spokesperson. Hermes 900 offers a range of enhanced capabilities, from higher flight altitude (up to 30,000 feet) to longer endurance and larger payload capacity. The system's structure enables it to carry a variety of payloads in different shapes and sizes, as well as quick conversion between payload configurations. 

"Hermes 900 is establishing its position as a world-leading UAS for intelligence missions, as well as perimeter and security missions,” says Elad Aharonson, general manager - Elbit Systems UAS Division. “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."