Elbit Systems Introduces "Skylark 3" Mini-UAS

The new Skylark 3 delivers ground commanders organic intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, for brigade-level and division-level units

Elbit Systems Introduces "Skylark 3" Mini-UAS

Elbit Systems has developed the Skylark 3, a new autonomous mini-Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS), best suited for brigades and divisions in “beyond the next hill” reconnaissance, counterinsurgency and force protection missions, as well as for use in a range of civil applications, such as border and coastal security and anti-terror operations.

Skylark 3 offers a wide range of system enhancements, including a significantly larger range (more than 100 km), flight endurance (up to 6 hours) and payload capacity (up to 10 kg). Launched via a pneumatic launcher, mounted either on the ground or on a vehicle, Skylark 3 offers upgrades such as improved payloads with better target detection, classification and surveillance capabilities. These deliver Electro Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) video and photographic imaging in both day and night operations and in adverse field conditions. The aerial vehicle incorporates an electric motor which reduces sound signature and enables operating over long distances and at high altitudes, has a 4.8 m wingspan and a maximum takeoff weight of 45 kg. It has a service ceiling of 15,000 ft.

To support interoperability, Skylark 3 uses the same technologies and know-how found in other Elbit Systems’ UAS. In addition, through a shared GCS, two Skylark 3 vehicles can be assigned to the same mission simultaneously, meaning a consistent target acquisition is maintained from two aspects. This also offers ground forces the ability to significantly extend the flight endurance of their mission by UAS hot-swap.

Elad Aharonson, General Manager of Elbit Systems ISTAR Division commented: “Skylark 3 is an ideal solution for carrying out complex ISTAR missions in a truly organic network-centric manner. It provides ground force commanders high situational awareness and enhanced force protection capabilities."