Elbit Systems has partnered with Israeli startup Lowental Hybrid to integrate what the companies describe as the world’s first “true hybrid” propulsion system into Elbit’s unmanned aerial vehicles. Under the agreement, Elbit’s UAVs will use Lowental’s Native Parallel Hybrid system, which allows seamless switching between combustion and electric propulsion without requiring major airframe modifications. The technology is expected to significantly extend endurance—potentially up to five times longer than conventional configurations—while enabling in-flight battery charging and reduced acoustic signatures. These features are particularly suited for covert intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions. Elbit said the system’s compatibility and NATO compliance were validated during initial flight trials, with the partnership beginning through a $1.4-million investment and structured to support upgrades and engineering cooperation over more than a decade.
