The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) has announced plans to induct the Hermes 900 unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) as part of its ongoing modernization efforts, marking the gradual retirement of the long-serving Hermes 450 fleet. The transition, unveiled by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) on November 3, underscores Singapore’s broader SAF2040 transformation strategy aimed at building a more advanced, networked, and efficient defense force.
In a statement, MINDEF said, “As part of the SAF2040 transformation, MINDEF/SAF will progressively take delivery of the Hermes 900 (H900) Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) to replace the Hermes 450 (H450) UAV, which has been in service for close to two decades and is becoming obsolete.” It added that after “robust and thorough evaluations,” the Hermes 900 was deemed the most capable platform to meet Singapore’s operational needs.
The ministry noted that Singapore now joins a growing list of nations operating the Hermes 900 for both military and civil missions, including Israel, Brazil, Chile, and Switzerland. The new UAVs will play a critical role in enhancing the country’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges.
The Hermes 450, introduced in the mid-2000s, has served as the backbone of Singapore’s unmanned ISR operations for nearly 20 years. It has provided the SAF with long-endurance surveillance, target acquisition, and battlefield awareness. However, as mission demands increase and technology advances, the need for a more capable successor has become evident.
Manufactured by Israel’s Elbit Systems, the Hermes 900 represents a significant upgrade. It offers extended endurance — reportedly up to 36 hours — and can operate at higher altitudes while carrying a larger payload. The UAV’s modular design allows it to accommodate a range of mission systems, including advanced electro-optical/infrared sensors, synthetic aperture radar, maritime surveillance radars, and communication relay payloads.
Elbit Systems confirmed the selection in a statement, saying, “Proud to see Elbit Systems’ Hermes 900 UAV selected by Singapore’s Air Force as part of the SAF2040 transformation. With 36-hour endurance and multi-role capabilities, Hermes 900 is designed to meet the most demanding operational needs, from persistent surveillance to precision strike.” The company added that Singapore joins over 20 countries operating the advanced system across four continents.
The SAF2040 initiative envisions a highly networked and integrated force capable of operating with smaller manpower while maintaining superior operational effectiveness. The introduction of next-generation unmanned systems like the Hermes 900 is central to this transformation, enabling Singapore to enhance situational awareness and operational tempo without proportionally increasing personnel demands.
Defense analysts note that Singapore’s decision aligns with a broader international trend among technologically advanced militaries — including those of Israel, the United Kingdom, and South Korea — that are shifting toward longer-endurance, multi-role UAVs with greater autonomy. These systems allow for more persistent surveillance over larger areas and can be seamlessly integrated into joint operations involving air, land, and maritime domains.
The RSAF has steadily expanded its unmanned aviation capabilities over the past two decades, using UAVs for persistent border surveillance, maritime domain awareness, and support in joint training exercises. The Hermes 900’s improved computing power, onboard data processing, and communication systems are expected to allow real-time data sharing across Singapore’s defense network, enhancing its responsiveness and precision in complex operations.
Defense observers suggest that the Hermes 900 could also support humanitarian and disaster relief missions, given its ability to cover large areas for extended periods and carry sensors suitable for search-and-rescue operations.
While MINDEF did not specify an exact delivery schedule, it said the Hermes 900 will be “progressively” introduced over the coming years. During this transition period, the Hermes 450 fleet will remain operational until sufficient numbers of Hermes 900 UAVs are fielded and RSAF personnel complete their conversion training on the new platform.
The induction of the Hermes 900 represents not just a technological upgrade, but also a strategic step toward a more agile and information-driven defense posture. As the SAF moves toward 2040, its growing reliance on advanced unmanned systems will be key to sustaining Singapore’s qualitative edge and ensuring that its air force remains among the most capable and technologically sophisticated in the Asia-Pacific region.
