In a major move to enhance its precision strike arsenal, the U.S. Army has awarded a multi-year contract worth $982 million to Mistral Inc. and Uvision Inc. for the HERO 120 loitering munition system. The award, made under the Army’s Lethal Unmanned System (LUS) program, will cover the procurement, fielding, training, and long-term sustainment of the advanced systems.
The Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract solidifies the HERO 120 as a key component in the Army’s future tactical capabilities. The loitering munition, often described as a “kamikaze drone,” is designed for mid-range missions to seek out, track, and precisely engage high-value targets such as armored vehicles.
Under the partnership, Uvision—the original designer of the HERO 120 and a global authority on loitering systems—will provide the core technology. Mistral Inc. will act as the prime contractor, managing system integration, the lethality package, program execution, and sustainment for the U.S. military.
Yoav Banai, Senior Vice President at Mistral Inc., called the contract a “significant milestone,” highlighting the synergy between “Uvision’s innovation and Mistral’s integration and program-execution expertise.” He emphasized that the HERO 120 offers a powerful blend of “lethality, flexibility, and operational simplicity” for American forces.
The HERO 120 has been proven in diverse operational environments, providing ground units with organic reconnaissance and strike capabilities. Its open architecture and modular design allow it to be adapted for both conventional battles and asymmetric warfare scenarios.
Dr. Ran Gozali, CEO of Uvision Group, stated that the award “reflects the growing demand for loitering munitions and validates the operational value of the HERO 120.” He affirmed a joint commitment with Mistral to deliver “cutting-edge solutions” for the modern warfighter.
Initial deliveries of the HERO 120 systems to the U.S. Army are scheduled to commence in early 2026.
