With no fewer than three on show, the Elbit Hermes 450 outnumbers any other machine type in the static park at Singapore ’08. The UAV has proved a major success for Elbit, with a number of important overseas sales, including to Singapore. The type has now logged more than 70,000 hours–mostly in operations supporting the Israel Defence Force. It can carry a 150-kilogram payload and flies at 16,000 to 18,000 feet. The three on display are a 450 that serves with the Republic of Singapore Air Force, another 450 with a new Wankel rotary engine and a 450B that is representative of the Watchkeeper vehicle for the UK armed forces.
New Engine for the Hermes
New for the Hermes 450 is Elbit’s own R902 engine, also known as the “W,” or “Wide,” powerplant. Based on Wankel rotary technology, the R902 develops more than 70 bhp for a weight of just 40 kilograms. Elbit claims that this represents the best power-to-weight ratio of any internal combustion engine. The R902 is also very efficient, allowing it to power the Hermes 450 on flights lasting more than 20 hours. Previously, Hermes 450s were powered by a 52-bhp engine of roughly similar weight. The “W” engine adds 100 kilograms to the mtow, which rises to 550 kg. The aircraft on display is configured with the El-Op Compass EO/IR/laser turret, and an Elisra AES-210V Elint suite. Elbit has developed a dorsal-mounted satcom antenna for the type, which can be rapidly fitted in the field.
