Elbit Systems has unveiled a concept to convert standard commercial merchant ships into modular drone carriers capable of launching and retrieving its Hermes 650 Spark fixed-wing unmanned aircraft.

This idea draws inspiration from historical escort carriers used during WWII, which were built by adding flight decks and hangar space to cargo ships.Modern advancements in drone technology now allow for similar conversions but with a focus on deploying hundreds of drones efficiently.The Hermes 650 Spark features advanced satellite communications, enabling shore-based control rather than requiring onboard command systems.This approach reduces the need for large command centers aboard ships.

The concept addresses contemporary logistical challenges posed by the growing number of military drones, offering a scalable solution for transporting and deploying fixed-wing drones across battlefields.Unlike historical escort carriers, these modern versions leverage digital connectivity to streamline operations.

Elbit's proposal highlights the evolving role of maritime platforms in drone warfare, combining traditional shipbuilding with cutting-edge unmanned systems technology.