Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) delivered the 'Oron' aircraft to the Israel Defence Forces (IDF). The 'Oron' is the first wide area persistent surveillance, multi-sensor aircraft and will provide the IDF with unprecedented Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. Its groundbreaking sensors and pioneering data processing capabilities will enable multi-domain coverage of vast areas in real time for ground and maritime surveillance, regardless of weather or visibility conditions. The development of this programme is led by the Directorate of Defence R&D in the Israel Ministry of Defence (IMOD), in collaboration with the Israeli Air Force (IAF), IDF Intelligence Directorate, Israeli Navy and IAI. The groundbreaking ISR systems developed and integrated in 'Oron' will enable the IDF to generate comprehensive, real-time intelligence assessments, including detailed assessments of the deployment of enemy forces and terrorist organisations at short and long ranges, during routine and operational activity. Developed based on lessons learned in past conflicts by IDF and MOD, the 'Oron' will also be equipped with a data processing mechanism based on advanced data science and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities. The 'Oron' aircraft is based on the Gulfstream G550, known for its ‘excellent’ flight performance and low maintenance costs. The aircraft will be equipped with cutting edge sensors, and advanced radar systems developed by IAI. The 'Oron' landed in Nevatim Airbase and was received in a ceremony held in the presence of IAF Commander, Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin. The aircraft will be operated by the IAF’s 'Nachshon' Intelligence Squadron and will enable the IAF to further its operational edge and intelligence capabilities in the face of emerging threats and security challenges.
The Commanding Officer of the Israeli Air Force (IAF), Maj. Gen. Amikam Norkin stated, “The IAF’s ‘Nachshon’ Intelligence Squadron’s acquisition of the ‘Oron’ will enable the Air Force to further enhance its operational and intelligence superiority in the face of emerging threats and security challenges.”
President & CEO of IAI, Boaz Levy stated, "The 'Oron' is yet another testimonial to IAI’s experience in developing strategic systems for the State of Israel and our customers worldwide. Our expertise in bringing end-to-end solutions to answer operational needs is clearly demonstrated through the 'Oron' aircraft initiative. IAI is honoured to bring our intelligence, communication, multi sensors and operational know-how to fruition to help guard Israel's borders. The ‘Oron’ aircraft is the first of its kind in the world and joins the family of Strategic Special Mission Aircraft that IAI has provided the IDF over the past two decades, including the ‘Eitam’ (AEW&C) and ‘Shavit’ (SIGINT) aircraft. The ‘Oron’ will provide the State of Israel with a strategic advantage thanks to innovative and pioneered technology.”
Head of Military R&D in the DDR&D of the Ministry of Defense, Brig. Gen. Yaniv Rotem stated, “The DDR&D has been leading the development of the ‘Oron’ mission systems for over nine years. This mission aircraft will provide the IDF with unprecedented, innovative ISR capabilities using groundbreaking sensing systems - the onboard radar system and a variety of sensors. These systems will stream valuable data to the intelligence units. The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology will enable an efficient and automated data processing system, which will produce actionable intelligence in real time, enhancing the effectiveness of IDF operational activities.”
And in more IAI news….
IAI demonstrates extended air defence capabilities
Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has completed a series of successful live firing trials with the Barak Air Defence System. The trials tested the system's capabilities in a range of scenarios and threats, including the interception of an assaulting ballistic target by the Barak ER (extended range) interceptor. The Barak ER missile, developed by IAI, combines the capability to intercept air defence threats at a long range of 150 kilometers and ballistic targets as part of IAI's Barak interceptors' family of various ranges. The extended range capability is made possible in part by adjusting the interceptor and MMR radar capabilities to a 150 km range.
