(Defense News) Barbara Opall-Rome - The Israel Navy is integrating a new fleet of unmanned surface vessels (USVs) into its operational force structure. By mid-2015, the Navy hopes to conclude operational certification of three locally-built Protector USVs. Built by Rafael Ltd., the twin-engine Protectors feature a remote weapon station and intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance capabilities. Two Protectors are now operational and the third is undergoing "its last months of sea trials," said Rear Adm. Dror Friedman, vice chief naval officer. "In the end, we'll see them incorporated into our force for coastal defense and also for the subject of offshore energy sites. Their added value is the ability to remain at sea for prolonged periods and to go to places that are particularly dangerous."
2014-12-24 00:00:00Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive