'Forward-looking capabilities': Defense min. purchases advanced drones, autonomous defense systems

The Defense Ministry announced on Tuesday it had purchased advanced drones and autonomous systems from Elbit Systems Ltd. 

The systems are set to "upgrade the operational capabilities of the forces on the ground," the ministry stated. 

These were developed in conjunction with the Directorate of Defense Research & Development and the IDF Ground Forces, the ministry added, noting that these systems included advanced capabilities for intelligence gathering and conducting precision strikes. 

The military is set to acquire drones from Elbit, including models designed for intelligence gathering, strike-capable drones, and smaller drones suited for urban operations.

'The world of drones'

"The world of drones enables the execution of reconnaissance and attack missions in a cost-effective, large-scale, and precise manner," the head of the Research and Development unit at the DDR&D, Brigadier-General Yehuda Elmakias, said. 

Executive Vice President of Elbit's C4I systems and Cyber Haim Delmar noted of the purchase, "These contracts highlight the growing trust in Elbit's innovative technology in the field of robotics and autonomy (RAS) in general, and drones in particular, as well as our commitment to delivering reliable, efficient systems with forward-looking capabilities that enhance security and operational control on the battlefield."