The IDF wants more small UASs for the brigade level

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The Israeli defense forces (IDF) have accelerated their efforts to deploy a very advanced unmanned aerial system, UAS, for the brigade level. The need for such a system has been obvious for some years, but is now receiving higher priority following the lessons learned from last summer’s “Protective Edge” operation in the Gaza strip.

The IDF’s artillery corps “Sky Rider” UAS battalion, operating the Elbit systems SkyLark 1LE, was very busy during this operation, successfully providing UAS services for other units. The Skylark-1 LE is designed for data collection and target marking at mission ranges exceeding 60 kilometers

The system is designed for either back pack configuration, where it can be deployed by dismounted teams, or in vehicle based mobilization/deployment configurations, including the option for on-the-move operational mode.

The Skylark-1LE is 50 km has a missions range of 50 km and its endurance is 3 hours. The maximum flight altitude of the UAS is 15,000 feet.

According to Flight International, the IDF has revived a plan initiated some years ago, and which was stopped for various reasons. The plan is for a bigger UAS than the one operated by the “Sky Rider” battalion and, due to operational demands it will now be revived.

The aim is to provide IDF brigades with the independence of operating each its own UAS. There are no specific details as to the design, but sources said that it will be larger than the SkyLark, it will be launched with the assistance of a catapult and will carry a very advanced payload.