(NSI News Source Info) December 15, 2008: The Netherlands is hoping to a
ward a contract in January to increase its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capacity in Afghanistan.
The objective is to have the new unmanned aircraft operational in March 2009, which requires a January contract award, the state secretary for defense, Jack de Vries, told the Dutch parliament. The timeline is "very tight," he warned and any delays would affect operational availability in the combat area.
The tactical UAV is supposed to be used to help detect improvised explosive devices and to give commanders better situational awareness. At least six hours a day of UAV coverage are required.
The Netherlands is looking to acquire service using the Elbit Hermes 450. The UAV would be operated by British civilians, de Vries points out. The United Kingdom already operates the system in Afghanistan, and Thales is in talks with the French government to take similar action.
The contract is valued at between 25-50 million euros.
ward a contract in January to increase its unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) capacity in Afghanistan.
The objective is to have the new unmanned aircraft operational in March 2009, which requires a January contract award, the state secretary for defense, Jack de Vries, told the Dutch parliament. The timeline is "very tight," he warned and any delays would affect operational availability in the combat area.
The tactical UAV is supposed to be used to help detect improvised explosive devices and to give commanders better situational awareness. At least six hours a day of UAV coverage are required.
The Netherlands is looking to acquire service using the Elbit Hermes 450. The UAV would be operated by British civilians, de Vries points out. The United Kingdom already operates the system in Afghanistan, and Thales is in talks with the French government to take similar action.
The contract is valued at between 25-50 million euros.
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