First international remotely piloted aircraft exercise, led by IAF, gets underway

As part of the exercise, the foreign crews will fly the Hermes 450 with operators from the IAF's remotely piloted aircraft squadrons. The crews will practice various scenarios including assistance to ground forces

First international remotely piloted aircraft exercise, led by IAF, gets underway

Photo: IDF Spokesperson's Unit

The Blue Guardian international remotely piloted aircraft exercise, which is being led by the IAF, got underway yesterday (Monday). The exercise taking place at the Palmachim Air Base will be held for two weeks. Various countries including the U.S., France, Italy, Germany, and Britain are participating in the exercise.     

In the exercise, which is the first of its kind, the foreign crews will fly the Hermes 450, called "Zik" in the IAF, along with operators from the IAF's drone squadrons. The crews will practice various scenarios including assistance to ground forces, intelligence gathering missions and cooperation with other air forces. 

The exercise has strategic importance in terms of the strengthening of international cooperation and mutual learning between Israel and the participating countries. The exercise is taking place as part of the IAF's yearly training program aimed at strengthening the IDF's operational readiness. 

"The State of Israel is a pioneer in the field of remotely piloted aircraft. The exercise serves as a platform for mutual learning and growth," said the Commander of the IAF, Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin. "This exercise has national significance and importance in positioning the IAF in the international arena."