Loitering munition from the helicopter: UVision makes the Hero-120 helicopter-capable

Israeli supplier UVision Air promises greater operational flexibility for its Hero-120 loitering munition. At the Paris Air Show, the company is demonstrating that the Hero-120 can be deployed from a range of utility and attack helicopters.

The new launch configuration was developed together with Fulcrum Concepts LLC, a US defence integrator, and Mistral Inc. It allows the Hero-120 to launch from rotary-wing aircraft without deep integration into avionics or fire control systems. The modular approach reduces cost and integration effort while allowing the solution to be adapted quickly to different helicopter types – current models as well as future systems, for example from the US Next Generation vertical lift programmes.

What the helicopter launch of the loitering munition brings tactically

UVision sees several tactical advantages in launching from a helicopter: ground troops can take over control and employ the munition beyond line of sight, targets can be engaged more precisely, and air and land forces cooperate better. As the Hero-120 accepts interchangeable warheads and payloads, it can be configured according to the mission against armoured or soft targets or for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

The system is compatible with numerous Western and NATO-standardised helicopters, from older platforms to the most modern types. Major modifications to the carriers are therefore not required for broad operational integration.

Ran Gozali, CEO of UVision, speaks of a step forward: “This is a breakthrough for helicopter operational capability.” He adds: “For the first time, helicopters can provide loitering munitions for different units, enable real-time target handover and significantly expand the mission spectrum – all without costly modifications to the platform.”

The Hero-120 is a medium-range loitering munition. It is designed for precision strikes against armoured vehicles, soft targets and other high-value threats; for this purpose it carries a multi-purpose warhead and supports various payloads.