The comprehensive mid-life upgrade package includes a full suite of sensors, avionics, and data-processing systems to enhance the Orbiter 2’s performance.
03 April 2023, Aeronautics Ltd. – a world leader in designing, developing and manufacturing
Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) for the global defense, HLS, and markets – is pleased to
announce that it has recently signed a mid-life upgrade contract with the Finnish Defense
Forces (FDF) for its existing Orbiter 2 Mini UAS array. Under the terms of the contract,
Aeronautics will provide the FDF with a comprehensive mid-life upgrade package that
includes a full suite of sensors, avionics, and data-processing systems to enhance the
system’s performance. The contract will also involve a substantial transfer of know-how,
increasing the FDF’s level of self-sufficiency, and assuring the customer of Orbiter 2 array
maintenance and support capabilities for the next decade.
The Orbiter 2 Mini UAS is a small-sized, lightweight, versatile UAS that can be deployed
quickly and efficiently in any environment. With advanced flight capabilities and innovative
payloads, the combat-proven, fixed-wing, electric system platform has Group 2 ISR
capabilities for defense, maritime, and HLS, making it an ideal solution for a wide range of
defense, security, and commercial applications.
As well as operational flexibility in challenging weather conditions, the Orbiter 2 offers
superior ISR performance. Benefits include increased payload capacity and variety, VMD for
advanced image processing capabilities and enhanced digital datalink, with long LOS range,
relay, AES-256 and frequency hopping. The system features advanced flight control and a
precision navigation system, including operation in GPS-denied areas. The Orbiter 2 system
is highly transportable, with rapid assembly and turnaround time and has a small logistics
footprint. The Orbiter 2 also complies with airworthiness standards, including CAAI, STANAG
4671 and 4609.
“We are delighted to be reenforcing our relationship with the Finnish Defense Forces
through this new contract,” says Matan Perry, Vice President of Marketing & Sales of
Aeronautics Ltd. “This mid-life upgrade of the Orbiter 2 will significantly extend its lifespan,
assuring the FDF high-quality, cost-efficient, tactical ISR capabilities for the next decade.”
“The successful completion of this agreement is a testament to the hard work of our
dedicated team, led by Udi Lebenstein, Director of Marketing and Business Development at
Aeronautics.”