Israeli Drone Firm Unveils Multi-Drone Launcher Amid Ukraine's Starlink Woes
Translated & summarized from Globes by baba
Israeli drone manufacturer UVision has launched a new eight-drone launcher at a U.S. exhibition, showcasing its advanced capabilities. In Ukraine, the military is reportedly hampered by speed restrictions imposed on Starlink satellite terminals, impacting drone operations. These limitations, allegedly ordered by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, have forced the cancellation of missions. Separately, the U.S. Army has chosen to purchase howitzers from South Korea over Israeli systems, while also exploring new drone technologies for precision targeting.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- UVision unveiled an eight-drone suicide launcher at a U.S. defense exhibition.
- Ukraine claims Starlink speed limits imposed by SpaceX are hindering drone missions.
- Elon Musk reportedly ordered Starlink speed restrictions, which President Trump denies knowing about.
- The U.S. Army is purchasing 155mm howitzers from South Korea, bypassing Israeli manufacturers.
- U.S. special forces are testing new drones for precision mortar guidance.
Israeli drone company UVision has unveiled a new eight-barreled suicide drone launcher at the AUSA exhibition in the United States. This system is designed for remote operation and is intended for the HERO 120 model, which has a maximum range of 60-40 km, an operational duration of one hour, and a warhead weighing approximately 4.5 kg. UVision also offers larger models, including the HERO 1250, capable of carrying a 50 kg warhead with a range exceeding 200 km and an operational time of up to 10 hours. The company has previously secured a significant contract in the U.S. worth $982 million, which is currently in production and delivery phases. The HERO 120 can be launched from various platforms, including containers and combat helicopters, with the latter offering a significant tactical advantage due to reduced flight time and diminished air defense response capabilities.
Meanwhile, Ukraine is reportedly facing communication limitations affecting its drone operations due to Starlink. Kyiv accuses Washington of restricting its offensive capabilities against Russia by imposing a speed limit on SpaceX's Starlink terminals. While Ukraine believes this was requested by the U.S. administration, a Wall Street Journal report suggests the move was a direct order from SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who reportedly discussed the matter with President Donald Trump, though Trump denied knowledge of the speed limit.
Ukrainian officials state that on October 14, the ground speed of Starlink terminals in Ukraine was limited to 100 miles per hour (approximately 160 km/h). This decision, imposed on military terminals without prior notice, has led to the cancellation of drone missions in the Zaporizhzhia region, according to sources close to President Zelensky. These terminals are crucial for transmitting live video feeds to operators and identifying targets, with distances potentially reaching hundreds of kilometers. Exceeding the speed limit risks losing communication with the operator.
In separate defense news, the United States has opted to purchase 155mm howitzers from South Korea's Hanwha instead of Israel. The U.S. Army ordered nine K9 howitzers, with an initial payment of $100 million for six systems and an option for 12 additional units costing approximately $263 million. This decision comes as the U.S. seeks diverse sources for its military equipment, with South Korea's Hanwha having risen in defense industry rankings, surpassing Israeli firm Elbit. Additionally, U.S. special units are experimenting with innovative ways to enhance their lethality, including the use of a miniature drone from Performance Drone carrying a laser designator from Leonardo to precisely guide 120mm mortar bombs.