Introduction of the OmniRaider: Advancements in VTOL UAS Technology
Overview of the OmniRaider
At AUSA 2025 in Washington, D.C., Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), in collaboration with its subsidiary BlueBird Aero Systems and U.S. partner AEVEX Aerospace, officially unveiled the OmniRaider—the American adaptation of the ThunderB-Next Generation Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS).
Key Features and Specifications
The OmniRaider represents a significant advancement in Group 3 DOW VTOL UAS technology. Manufactured entirely in the United States by AEVEX Aerospace, based in Tampa, this platform showcases several notable characteristics:
- Maximum Take-Off Weight: 110 lbs
- Payload Capacity: Over 20 lbs in a multi-payload configuration, facilitating simultaneous mission execution.
- Endurance: 12–14 hours, enabling extensive operational periods without refueling.
- Range: 100 miles, ideal for continuous reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (RSTA) operations.
Multifunctional Mission Capabilities
The OmniRaider’s design emphasizes versatility, allowing for the integration of diverse payloads tailored to a myriad of mission objectives. The legacy ThunderB platform previously accommodated 11 different payloads, enabling operations such as:
- Airborne intelligence collection (EO/IR) alongside Signal Intelligence (SIGINT)
- Mapping and reconnaissance conducted in parallel
- Combining intelligence gathering with strike capabilities
The system’s intelligent integration framework ensures that operators can maximize the operational output with each sortie, thus enhancing efficiency on the battlefield.
Operational Resilience
Designed for use in contested environments, the OmniRaider is equipped to function effectively in:
- GPS-denied environments: Capable of navigating and executing tasks without traditional satellite support.
- Congested Electro-Magnetic Interference (EMI) airspace: Facilitating operations even amidst challenging electronic environments.
Industry Perspectives
Boaz Levy, President and CEO of IAI, highlighted the strategic importance of the OmniRaider: “This platform elevates tactical UAS capabilities by merging multi-payload endurance with VTOL agility. Our collaboration with AEVEX ensures that we utilize advanced Israeli technology while supporting domestic U.S. manufacturing, thereby addressing the evolving requirements of allied forces and contributing to local job creation.”
Bob Horky, Chief Growth Officer at AEVEX, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The OmniRaider introduces a distinctive combination of endurance, payload versatility, and survivability necessary for modern operational demands. Producing this UAS within the U.S. will not only provide job support in our Tampa facility but will also enhance the capabilities available to the Army Brigade.”
Proven Reliability
The OmniRaider is built upon the operational foundation of the ThunderB UAS, which has been successfully deployed by multiple international customers. With its mastering of 11 various payloads over the last two years, this new model stands ready to fulfill a wide spectrum of RSTA missions, defined by its long endurance, tactical flexibility, and diverse payload capabilities.
The OmniRaider takes a significant step forward in the evolution of unmanned systems, promising to meet the intricate demands of future military operations.
