Group : mini-UAVs
Status : Active
Origin : Israel
Contractor : BlueBird Aero Systems Ltd
Initial Operational Capability (IOC) : 2006
Total Production : ?

The SpyLite is a high-altitude, fully autonomous, mini Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (mini-UAV) developed by BlueBird Aero Systems to meet the requirements of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF). The SpyLite mini-UAV system has been designed for use by infantry units providing real-time surveillance and target acquisition operating in adverse weather conditions and high altitudes. The SpyLite is powered by an electric motor and is launched using a catapult while recovery requires a landing parachute. The sensor package combining CCD-TV and IR devices provides high quality daylight and night videos. The system can also serve for law enforcement, disaster relief, peacekeeping and search and rescue (SAR) missions. A single system can be deployed in back packs by dismounted infantrymen or using tactical vehicles. The drone can stay airborne for 3-4 hours at a range of 50 kilometer that can be extended to 80 kilometers. The Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) platform was deployed by the IDF since 2006. In September 2018, the Indian Army ordered the SpyLite mini-UAV to conduct surveillance missions operating at high altitude.