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The Pilots Desk
ReconnaissanceReconnaissance UAV

Aeronautics Defense Orbiter

Aeronautics Defense Orbiter

The Orbiter Mini UAV System is an Israeli compact and lightweight unmanned aerial vehicle designed for use in military and security applications. It has been used in the Middle East since it was first developed. The system is used for 'Over The Hill' reconnaissance missions, low intensity conflicts and urban warfare operations as well as any close range ISTAR mission. It is manufactured by the Israeli company Aeronautics Defense Systems. Aeronautics announced in May 2015 the Orbiter 1K "Kingfisher" version with a fuselage adapted to carry a 2 kg (4.4 lb) explosive payload, turning it into a loitering munition. It can be controlled by an operator, or is capable of being given a waypoint and independently scanning the area to detect and destroy a stationary or moving target. If a target is not detected, the Orbiter 1K can return to base and land for reuse. The Orbiter 1K can fly for 2–3 hours carrying an electro-optical/infrared sensor with a unique warhead that, due to its low acoustic signature, "is not detected until two seconds before it starts its kill dive". Aeronautics announced the armed loitering UAV achieved operational status in August 2016.

Summary from Wikipedia, photo via Wikimedia Commons, licensed under CC BY-SA.

Category
Reconnaissance
Country of origin
Israel

Specifications

Cruise speed
60 kt
Max speed
80 kt
Range
60 nm
Service ceiling
15,000 ft
Rate of climb
200 ft/min
Max takeoff weight
1,100 lb
Empty weight
600 lb
Fuel capacity
15 US gal
Powerplant
Electric motor
Engines
1
Seats
1
Length
8 ft
Wingspan
13 ft
Height
3 ft
Number built
50

Specifications are approximate and may vary by variant. Compiled from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA).

Reference and training only. Specifications vary by variant — consult the manufacturer and the official documents.