Intelligence

RAFAEL's SkyLite B Mini-UAV Flies into FIDAE 2006

Haifa, March 15, 2006 -- RAFAEL Armament Development Authority announces that it will display its new mini-UAV, the SkyLite B, at FIDAE Defense Exhibition in Santiago, Chile for the first time.

The SkyLite B is a man-portable long endurance mini-UAV system that enables long periods of stealthy reconnaissance and surveillance during the day, at night and in winds of 30 knots.

The SkyLite B system, which was specially configured to fly below low cloud base and in high winds, provides the lowest echelon field commander with a real time live video image that is at his control, throughout a complete mission scenario.

This new mini-UAV system can be distinguished from the many other mini-UAVs in the market today by its combination of a robust platform using advanced gimbaled and stabilized electro-optic payloads, a built in electro-optical tracker and a camera guide mode which allows the system to autonomously and continuously track a moving target in real-time and provide extremely high resolution images with extremely accurate targeting information.

The SkyLite B claims other characteristics, which include quick deployment, reliable launch, recovery and immediate reusability. In addition it provides on-the-spot data exploitation so that field operator receives reliable intelligence as needed.

The SkyLite B was designed to serve as an indispensable tool for the Commander of infantry forces in the field. It has the unique ability to gather intelligence in a variety of complex mission scenarios such as continuous tracking of a static target, surveillance of a crowded urban area, scanning an axis, accompanying a combat force, tracking personnel and vehicles, as well as directing a combat force to its target.

Each SkyLite B weighs a total of 6 kg and is accompanied by a portable, rugged command station. It can fly for over 90 minutes at ranges of up to 10 km, with a cruise speed of between 35-55 knots.

RAFAEL has concluded over 200 technical and operational flights on the SkyLite B, some of which included the participation of the Israeli MOD. This new mini-UAV is attracting much attention among armed forces worldwide, including forces in Latin America.

At FIDAE, RAFAEL will exhibit the mini-UAV, its electro-optic sensor capabilities and advanced image processing techniques. In addition, RAFAEL will be displaying many other innovative solutions for the aerospace defense arena, such as the Litening targeting and navigation pod, the Python 5 full sphere IR and Derby BVR air-to-air and a surface-to-air missiles, the Spice family of precision guided weapon kits, as well as advanced networking and communications products.

About RAFAEL
RAFAEL designs, develops, manufactures and supplies a wide range of advanced defense systems. These leading edge products include naval, air and ground precision weapons, electro-optic systems, electronic warfare (EW) systems, Command, Control, Communications, Computers and Intelligence (C4I) systems, acoustic defense systems, armored protection and training systems.

Contact:
Mr. Amit Zimmer – Corporate Spokesman – Tel: +972-3-572-4710, amitz@rafael.co.il