Elbit Systems Awarded $120 Million Contract to Supply Hermes 900 Drones to Thailand

Israeli defense company Elbit Systems announced that it has been awarded a $120 million contract to manufacture and supply Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicles for the Royal Thai Navy.

Here's What We Know

The Thai Navy will receive seven reconnaissance drones, operator training tools and additional equipment. Information about the deal appeared back in mid-summer 2022, but Elbit Systems has only now officially confirmed the rumors. The contract is set to run for three years.

The Hermes 900 for Thailand will be equipped with maritime radar, electro-optical payloads, dropable inflatable rafts and will receive satellite communications support. The drones will be able to perform missions at sea and in the coastal zone, maintain communications with ships, be used in rescue missions and detect potential hazards at sea.

The Israeli company is already supplying its drones to more than 20 countries. In addition to Thailand, they include Canada, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Chile, Mexico, Brazil and the United States. Elbit Systems also supplies drones to the European Union and the United Nations.

The Hermes 900 has a range of 4,000 km, a flight time of 40 hours and can reach a speed of 222 km/h. The drone has a practical ceiling of just over 9.1 km. The UAV has a takeoff weight of up to 1,150 kg including a 300 kg payload.

Source: Defense Brief