Elbit Systems upgrades Israeli Defense Forces drone fleet with Skylark 1 eVTOL.

Israel's Defense Forces (IDF) are set to modernize their drone capabilities by replacing the Skylark 1 miniature Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) with the more advanced Skylark 1 eVTOL, developed by Elbit Systems. The IDF has been operating the Skylark since 2008, and the new platform is expected to significantly enhance the tactical capabilities of the ground forces.

Follow Air Recognition on Google News at this link

The Skylark 1 eVTOL is slated to replace the Skylark 1 mini UAV after 15 years of service  (Picture source: Elbit System)

Weighing up to 20 kg, the Skylark 1 eVTOL is designed to be either man-packed or vehicle-based. Unlike its predecessor, the new drone comes with an electric motor for forward flight and a Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) kit. This allows the drone to hover, take off, and land vertically, providing a more versatile operational range.

 The Skylark 1 eVTOL is equipped with onboard analytical capabilities and is designed to organically perform Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. This significantly expands the operational scope of the IDF's tactical forces and allows for rapid deployment in various scenarios.

 Elbit Systems will supply the new drones to the Artillery Corps of the IDF. The contract also includes through-life maintenance services for the new systems, as well as other Small Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems (STUAS) operated by the IDF Ground Forces, including Skylark 1 and Skylark 3.

 The Skylark 1 eVTOL is slated to replace the Skylark 1 mini UAV after 15 years of service. This marks a significant upgrade for the IDF, integrating more modern and versatile drones into their operational fleet. The new system will be a game-changer in terms of tactical capabilities, offering both the endurance of a fixed-wing drone and the flexibility of vertical take-off and landing.