The capability has been successfully demonstrated, in collaboration with Axxeum Inc., during
the U.S. Army Experimental Demonstration Gateway Event (EDGE) 23 event, under the Future
Vertical Lift (FVL) Cross Functional Team (CFT), which is aimed at developmental and
operational testing for key elements of the US Army Future Force.
June 12, 2023 UVision USA, the US subsidiary of UVision Air, a global leader in aerial
loitering systems, in collaboration with Axxeum, a full-service aviation integration
facility, has announced the successful launch of its Hero 120 loitering munition system
from an airborne helicopter. The capability was demonstrated during the EDGE 23 event
in May 2023 at Yuma Proving Ground in Yuma, Arizona.
The trial showcased the system’s ability to complete a sensor-to-shooter cycle by
launching the Hero 120 from a Bell 412EP helicopter to strike a ground target. The Hero
120 demonstrated safe separation, successfully launching from the helicopter while it
was airborne. Several parameters were tested and proven successful during the trial,
including launching from a safe altitude without endangering the helicopter,
transferring tactical control between the on-board operator and the ground operator six
times, pursuing the munition to a forward location, controlling the system within a 30-
kilometer range from the helicopter, and effectively attacking a ground target over a 50-
kilometer flight.
The successful launch was made possible through the cooperation between UVision USA
and Axxeum. Axxeum designed a fully mechanical docking system for the single canister
launcher, conducted all structural and load analysis, established safe flight envelopes,
and operated Axxeum’s Bell 412 helicopter. This accurate modeling and integration
allowing for electrically-triggered launches without the need for integration with the
helicopter’s electrical systems or flight controls. This revolutionary solution enables safe
launch and installation in any helicopter or aerial platform.
Major General (Ret.) Avi Mizrachi , CEO of UVisionAir Ltd, the parent company of
UVIsion USA , expressed pride in the successful demonstration of the Hero 120’s
advanced capabilities. The company conducted extensive mechanical and aerodynamic
analyses over five months to ensure the system’s performance and its impact on the
helicopter were thoroughly tested. UVision works closely with various defense forces in
the U.S., and this successful demonstration reaffirms confidence in the company’s
advanced solutions.
Oleg Sirbu, CEO of Axxeum, echoed the sentiments of Mr. Truxel. Sirbu was on board
the Bell 412 during the first ever aerial launch of the Hero 120. Following the trial, he
said, “I am excited that Axxeum could play a key role in this collaborative program with
UVision USA. The combined efforts brought forward a capability in five months that not many
other companies could have completed. Axxeum’s experience in supporting major OEMs in
rapid prototyping programs showcases our future together with UVision USA. I look forward to
the ongoing success of the UVision platform and working with the US Government customer in
future demonstrations for added capability of this tremendous system.”
The Hero 120 Loitering Munition System is a mid-range, anti-tank system designed to
meet the demands of the modern battlefield. It employs high-precision strikes against
anti-armor, anti-material, and anti-personnel targets, including tanks, vehicles, and soft
targets in urban areas.
With minimal collateral damage and a range of multi-purpose warheads, the Hero 120
provides operational users with an effective engagement solution.