Elbit in JV with Embraer for UAV systems and avionics

Elbit Systems Ltd, one of the world's largest defence electronics manufacturers and integrators, is expanding its collaboration with Brazilian aerospace company Embraer SA to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV). Under an agreement, Elbit Systems' Brazilian subsidiary, AEL Sistemas SA, and Embraer subsidiary, Embraer Defesa e Segurança SA, will set up a joint venture to develop, manufacture, market, and support unmanned aircraft systems and their avionics.

Embraer will own majority stake in the venture.

The companies signed the agreement at the LAAD 2011 Latin American Aerospace & Defense exhibition in Rio de Janeiro.

AEL director general Shlomo Erez said, "This strategic agreement with Embraer marks a significant milestone for AEL towards the realization of our goal regarding the development of UAS competencies in Brazil.

This cooperation with Embraer will leverage new business opportunities and enhance Brazilian know-how in the development and manufacture of un-manned systems, offering latest generation technology in order to meet the specific demands and needs of our country."

Embraer Defesa e Segurança president Luiz Carlos Aguiar said that the collaboration with AEL would enable the two companies to offer the Brazilian government with cost-effective unmanned aerial solutions for defence and security.