Elevating Surveillance with Advanced Aerostat Technology

RT LTA Systems, an Israeli aerospace company, specializes in the design, development, and manufacture of tethered aerostat systems. Established in 1996, the company has become a global leader in providing cost-effective, rapidly deployable intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), and communication solutions for military, homeland security, and civilian applications.

Company Overview

• Founded: 1996
• Founder & CEO: Rami Shmueli
• Headquarters: Yavne, Israel
• Ownership: Privately held; co-owned by Rami Shmueli and the Aeronautics Group
• Global Presence: Operations in over 10 countries, including the USA, Canada, Mexico, Thailand, and Israel

Product Portfolio: The SkyStar™ and SkyGuard™ Families

RT LTA’s flagship products are the SkyStar™ and SkyGuard™ families of tethered aerostat systems. These systems are designed for various operational needs, offering persistent surveillance capabilities with minimal logistical requirements.

SkyStar™ Aerostat Systems

The SkyStar™ series includes several models, each tailored for specific mission profiles:

• SkyStar 100/110/120/140: Miniature systems designed for rapid deployment and short-range surveillance.
• SkyStar 180/CROW1: Compact tactical aerostats suitable for urban and border surveillance.
• SkyStar 220: Medium-sized systems offering extended endurance and higher payload capacity.
• SkyStar 250: Designed for medium-altitude surveillance with enhanced stability.
• SkyStar 300/330: Large tactical aerostats capable of carrying heavier payloads for extended missions.
• SkyStar 400: High-capacity systems for strategic surveillance operations.

SkyGuard™ Aerostat Systems

Developed through RT LTA’s subsidiary, Aero-T, the SkyGuard™ series features larger, blimp-shaped aerostats:

• SkyGuard 1: Capable of carrying payloads up to 90 kg, reaching altitudes of 1,000 meters, and operating continuously for seven days without maintenance.

Operational Capabilities and Applications

RT LTA’s aerostat systems are designed for versatility and can be deployed across various scenarios:

• Military ISTAR: Providing real-time intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance support.
• Border Protection: Monitoring and securing national borders against unauthorized crossings and smuggling.
• Strategic Facility Security: Safeguarding critical infrastructure and sensitive installations.
• Coastal and Offshore Surveillance: Enhancing maritime domain awareness and security.
• Safe City Initiatives: Supporting urban security operations and crowd monitoring.
• VIP Protection: Offering aerial surveillance during high-profile events and visits.
• Disaster Response: Assisting in search and rescue operations and disaster management.

Global Deployments and Collaborations

RT LTA’s aerostat systems have been deployed in various countries for both military and civilian purposes:

• Israel: Utilized by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and police for surveillance and intelligence gathering.
• United States: SkyStar 180 systems selected by the U.S. Army for tactical ISR missions.
• Mexico: Employed by federal police for urban security operations.
• Thailand: Deployed for border surveillance and internal security.
• Canada, Russia, Colombia, and others: Used in various defense and security roles.

Technological Innovations

RT LTA continually invests in research and development to enhance its aerostat systems:

• Sky-High System: An integrated solution combining the SkyStar 120 aerostat with a mini quadrotor drone, mounted on an all-terrain vehicle (ATV), providing rapid deployment and extended surveillance capabilities.
• Advanced Payload Integration: Incorporating high-resolution cameras, communication relays, and other sensors to meet diverse mission requirements.
• Extended Endurance: Designing systems capable of continuous operation for extended periods, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

Training and Support Services

RT LTA offers comprehensive training programs and logistical support to ensure optimal operation of its aerostat systems:

• Personnel Training: Providing hands-on instruction for system deployment, operation, and maintenance.
• Logistical Support: Offering spare parts, technical assistance, and system upgrades.
• Customized Solutions: Tailoring systems to meet specific client requirements and operational environments.

Future Outlook

RT LTA aims to expand its global footprint and continue innovating in the field of aerostat technology:

• Market Expansion: Targeting new markets in Asia, Africa, and South America.
• Technological Advancements: Investing in autonomous systems, AI integration, and enhanced payload capabilities.
• Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with international defense and security organizations to develop customized solutions.

Conclusion

RT LTA Systems Ltd. stands as a prominent player in the field of tethered aerostat systems, offering versatile, cost-effective, and reliable solutions for a wide range of surveillance and communication needs. With a strong commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, the company continues to elevate the standards of aerial surveillance worldwide.