Advancing SAF2040 Through Persistent ISR
The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has selected Elbit Systems Hermes 900 UAVs to replace its aging Hermes 450 fleet under the SAF2040 modernization program. The acquisition marks a leap in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) capability, ensuring 24-hour coverage over Singapore’s dense urban and littoral zones—vital for a nation with no strategic depth.
Twice the Endurance, Broader Mission Spectrum
Following extensive evaluation, the Hermes 900 emerged as the optimal choice to meet operational demands. With a 15-meter wingspan, 36-hour endurance, 30,000-foot ceiling, and up to 350 kg payload, the platform doubles the Hermes 450’s endurance and adds multi-sensor flexibility.
Its modular architecture supports EO/IR turrets, maritime and synthetic aperture radars, SkEye wide-area sensors, SIGINT payloads, and SATCOM, enabling simultaneous multi-domain awareness far beyond line-of-sight.
Urban and Littoral Surveillance Superiority
The Hermes 900’s advanced configuration allows Singapore to maintain round-the-clock situational awareness across the Singapore and Malacca Straits, tracking small craft through maritime clutter and providing early identification before engagement.
Wide-area sensors such as SkEye generate real-time mosaics of urban zones, improving decision speed and coordination with ground and police forces while minimizing collateral risk.
A Central Node in Singapore’s Networked Force
As part of a digital command network, the H900 will act as a sensor-to-shooter hub, passing targeting data directly to air, naval, or artillery units.
Beyond defense, it will support search and rescue, disaster relief, and maritime patrol without committing manned ISR assets—reinforcing Singapore’s multi-mission flexibility in peace or crisis.
Phased Integration, Strategic Continuity
Deliveries will proceed progressively, beginning with training and evaluation as Hermes 450s retire in phases. Supported by ST Engineering and DSO National Laboratories, the transition ensures continuity without capability gaps.
For Singapore, the Hermes 900 represents not a one-for-one replacement, but a transformational leap to a fully networked, SATCOM-enabled, multi-sensor ISR system built for complex urban and maritime environments.
