Elbit Systems Ltd. has unveiled a new engine for its Hermes 450 medium altitude long endurance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that is to further improve operational performance of this air vehicle.
The new R902 (W) engine is shown for the first time at the Singapore Air Show that has started today (see also Aviation Week's extensive dedicated Singapore Air Show coverage elsewhere on this site).
Hermes 450 UAV: can fly for more than 20 hours powered by the new R902 (W) Wankel engine. Photo: Elbit Systems The R902 (W) is a Wankel technology engine that features an "outstanding power-to-size and weight ratio," the Israeli company says.
The "W" engine includes a larger combustion compartment than its predecessors, thanks to an increase in the width of the Wankel engine block. The result is a 40-kg. engine that delivers over 70 horse power.
Elbit claims that this power-to-weight ratio is best among internal combustion engines (piston and Wankel engines). Only turbo (jet) engines would have similar power-to-weight ratios but these consume vast amounts of fuel – in contrast to the fuel-economical R902, which can power a Hermes 450 in the air for more than 20 consecutive hours, Elbit says.
The R902 (W) is also equipped with electronic fuel control and a "starter-alternator" option for aerial ignition.
