General Dynamics and Elbit Systems of America Form Joint Venture to Provide Tactical UAVs to US Market

Released on Friday, May 15, 2009

CHARLOTTE, N.C. and FORT WORTH, Texas � General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products and Elbit Systems of America, LLC, have formed a new company named UAS Dynamics, LLC, to provide unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to the Department of Defense (DoD) and other potential U.S. government customers through programs such as the recently announced U.S. Marine Corps' Small Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System (STUAS)/Tier II program.

The solutions that UAS Dynamics will offer are based on advanced, mature UAS designs that have accumulated more than 150,000 operational flight hours to date: the combat-proven Hermes® and Skylark® systems, developed and fielded by Elbit Systems Ltd. UAS Dynamics will adapt those proven designs to incorporate new technologies that use U.S. engineering, technology, manufacturing and logistics resources to rapidly field and satisfy evolving U.S. requirements. The new platforms will fill current and future operational gaps allowing Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities that range in size and scope from hand-held and tactical level systems to medium altitude, long-endurance level systems.

"UAS Dynamics is an American company positioned to address U.S. defense requirements with operationally proven systems that have been modified, manufactured and supported locally," said Doug Tobiassen, president of UAS Dynamics. "We are proud to combine General Dynamics' systems integration and program management expertise with the proven UAS technology that Elbit Systems of America brings to the table," he continued.

Tobiassen was formerly the senior director of program management for advanced programs at General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products. He brings 35 years of experience in the defense industry to his new role. Paul Keller, currently at Elbit Systems of America, will serve as the executive vice president of UAS Dynamics and brings 30 years of experience to the position.

"The advanced capabilities of the Hermes® and Skylark® UASs have been proven in operations worldwide," stated Raanan Horowitz, president and chief executive officer of Elbit Systems of America. "These systems were delivered on an accelerated schedule to support urgent operational requirements of allied forces and are proving to be a tremendous value to operations and mission-effectiveness in conflict areas."

"We are proud to join forces with General Dynamics Armament and Technical Products in order to make advanced technology and operationally-proven UASs available to the U.S. warfighter," Horowitz said.

The joint venture is equally owned by General Dynamics and Elbit Systems of America and will be located in Fort Mill, S.C.