The Super Heron's main innovation, compared with the Heron UAV, is its innovative engine, which gives it greater flexibility and higher speed. Instead of an aviation fuel engine used by other Herons, the Super Heron uses a 200-horsepower diesel engine and advanced motor that enables it fly at over 150 knots and gives it a faster rate of climb. ÒThe new UAV's improved engine gives it a somewhat bigger and heftier look than the other Herons,Ó said Weiss.
The Super Heron has 45 hours endurance, a flight ceiling of 30,000 feet, and a loiter speed of 60-80 knots. It is equipped with satellite communications and state-of-the-art avionics. It was redesigned for simplified and easier use of payloads, attached under the wings, in order to operate new payloads for different future missions.
The Super Heron's configurations are suitable for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance, maritime patrol, and other missions. ÒThe Super Heron greatly expands the mission capabilities of UAVs,Ó says Weiss. ÒIts development reflects our continuous investment in UAVs and advanced technologies. We previously identified this sector as a key growth engine for the company.Ó
Weiss says that the Super Heron was developed quickly because it was adapted from the Heron and Heron TP platforms. ÒThe Super Heron's use of a diesel engine greatly improves its operational safety,Ó he says. He adds that while potential foreign customers have shown great interest in the Super Heron, ÒThe Israel Air Force is sitting on the sidelines,Ó and has not yet made a decision to procure the new UAV.