Elbit Skystriker

Skystriker is a Loitering Munition / Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) manufactured by Israeli company Elbit Systems. Revealed in 2017 at the Paris Air Show and confirmed in operation since later that year, the munition can be launched from a variety of ground and aerial platforms.

Basic Weapon Facts

I. Background

1. Manufacturer: Elbit
2. Suppliers: Unknown
3. Country of origin: Israel
4. Developmental stage: Operational
5. System version: Unknown
6. System type: UAS

II. General Specifications

III. Autonomy

Autonomous Targeting capabilities:

The system is advertised as “fully autonomous” and as a “surprise attacker”. It navigates based on an electro-optical “lock” on self-identified targets. It is also claimed to have the capacity to “precisely strike targets while maintaining a ‘man in the loop’ even in GPS and communication denied environments.”

Sources

1. Manufacturer website:
   https://elbitsystems.com/product/skystriker/
2. News reports:
   • Elbit Systems Debuts Skystriker Loitering Munition  (AIN Online)

Avi Perera

Avi is a researcher educated at the University of Cambridge, specialising in the intersection of AI Ethics and International Law. Recognised by the United Nations for his work on autonomous systems, he translates technical complexity into actionable global policy. His research provides a strategic bridge between machine learning architecture and international governance.