Leaked US Intelligence reveals Israel covert drone operations over Iran.

According to information published by Middle East Eye on October 22, 2024, a recent intelligence leak has exposed details on Israel’s covert use of a sophisticated, long-range drone capable of conducting surveillance over Iran, signaling heightened preparations by Israel for potential strikes on Iranian targets.
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Here is the illustration depicting the Israeli stealth drone flying covertly over Middle Eastern terrain, with a backdrop symbolizing covert operations over Iran. The high-tech drone and strategic landscape elements convey the covert surveillance mission theme. (Picture source: Generated by AI)

The leak, originating from two classified U.S. intelligence documents shared last week on a Telegram channel called Middle East Spectator, has since been authenticated by the Pentagon. These documents, produced by the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA), reveal a level of military escalation that includes missile positioning and aircraft training exercises specifically aimed at potential strikes on Iran. The documents also indicate that the U.S. planned to share certain elements of this intelligence with the U.K., although the leak predates any confirmed sharing of this sensitive data with British authorities.

One significant element of the leak pertains to the RA-01, an Israeli stealth drone not previously disclosed to the public. Details in the documents outline “UAV flight activity” at Ramon Airfield in Israel between October 15-16, showing Israel’s capabilities for covert drone operations that could facilitate surveillance over Iran and throughout the region.

Israeli USV's

Israel’s UAV program has established it as a leader in drone technology, with a range of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) tailored for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and tactical strikes. Among its arsenal, the IAI Eitan (Heron TP) serves as a strategic UAV, capable of long-distance missions with an endurance of over 30 hours. Its satellite communication capabilities and infrared sensors support Israel's most challenging operations, including high-altitude reconnaissance missions possibly extending as far as Iran​.

The Hermes line, developed by Elbit Systems, includes both the Hermes 450 and the advanced Hermes 900. Both drones provide long-endurance capabilities—up to 36 hours for the Hermes 900—making them essential for persistent intelligence and support operations. Their payload flexibility allows for various configurations tailored to complex mission requirements, with the Hermes 450 especially valuable in high-conflict areas like Gaza and Lebanon​.

The IAI Shoval (Heron 1) is another versatile drone in Israel’s UAV fleet. Designed for missions requiring low visibility, its minimal acoustic signature enables covert operations and urban surveillance. Additionally, Israel fields tactical drones such as the Skylark for ground-based intelligence and loitering munitions like the Orbiter, which function as "kamikaze" drones, designed to self-destruct on impact to eliminate specific targets effectively​.

These UAVs highlight Israel's commitment to advanced technology and tactical adaptability, enabling precise targeting and operational flexibility across various fronts. The international success of these drones also underscores Israel's role as a major UAV exporter, with anti-drone and surveillance technology that continually pushes the boundaries of modern warfare​.