Israeli Loitering Munitions...A Game Changer!

[Alexandrian]

Israeli loitering munitions became a topic of major international discussion after Azerbaijan used them to decisive effect in its conflict with Armenia over the disputed Nagorno-Karabakh region last year.

Azerbaijan used mainly three Israeli killer drones

1-Harop

The Harop is a loitering munition developed by the MBT division of Israel Aerospace Industries. It is an anti-radiation drone that can autonomously home in on radio emissions. This SEAD-optimised loitering munition is designed to loiter the battlefield and attack targets by self-destructing into them.[1] The drone can either operate fully autonomously, using its anti-radar homing system, or it can take a human-in-the-loop mode. If a target is not engaged, the drone will return and land itself back at base

2-Orbiter 1K

The Orbiter 1K MUAS is a loiter munition platform, based on the combat proven, mature Orbiter 2 MUAS with the fuselage adapted for explosive payload.

This product is designed for military applications: intelligence; land and maritime loitering missions;

Orbiter 1K is equipped with an avionics package with automatic flight control guidance

3-SkyStriker

Elbit Systems’ SkyStriker is a cost-effective loitering munition that is capable of long-range precise tactical strikes. The technology-enabled SkyStriker improves performance, situational awareness and survivability by providing direct-fire aerial-precision capabilities to maneuverable troops and Special Forces.

References

1-https://elbitsystems.com/product/skystriker/

2-https://aeronautics-sys.com/home-page/page-systems/page-systems-orbiter-1k-muas/

3-https://www.imago-images.com/st/0107725309

4-https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/israels-elbit-systems-sells-azerbaijan-skystriker-suicide-drone-577053

5-https://www.forbes.com/sites/pauliddon/2020/10/07/how-effective-is-azerbaijans-growing-drone-arsenal/?sh=5c6e0eb1114c

6-https://www.csis.org/analysis/air-and-missile-war-nagorno-karabakh-lessons-future-strike-and-defense#:~:text=A3%3A%20Azerbaijani%20drones%20were%20the,took%20control%20of%20the%20skies.

7-Wikipedia