New concept explores converting commercial ships into drone carriers

July 14, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

Elbit Systems is exploring a new maritime surveillance concept that combines unmanned aircraft with converted commercial vessels, creating a new alternative to traditional naval aviation platforms.

The company’s proposed solution would transform merchant ships into floating unmanned aviation bases capable of deploying multiple Hermes™ 650 Spark unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for long-range intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions.

As maritime operating areas expand and become increasingly difficult to monitor, naval forces are seeking ways to extend their situational awareness beyond the limitations of shipborne sensors, helicopters and smaller drones. Elbit Systems’ concept aims to provide persistent aerial coverage without the cost and complexity associated with operating aircraft carriers.

The Hermes 650 Spark was designed with maritime operations in mind, featuring a front-mounted engine configuration, short takeoff and landing (STOL) capability, two payload bays, satellite communications and compatibility with existing Hermes 900 ground control infrastructure.

According to Elbit Systems, the front-mounted engine provides increased power margins, enabling a wider operational envelope, support for heavier payloads and operations from shorter runways. These characteristics allow the aircraft to be deployed from unconventional platforms, including converted maritime vessels.

Under the concept, a commercial ship could be modified to carry approximately nine to 12 Hermes 650 Spark aircraft, along with deck infrastructure, mission systems and support equipment. The vessel would function as a mobile unmanned aviation hub, launching and recovering aircraft that extend the ship’s surveillance and operational reach far beyond onboard sensors.

Rather than replicating the capabilities of a traditional aircraft carrier, the concept is designed to provide a more accessible form of maritime airpower for countries requiring persistent coverage across large maritime zones.

The Hermes 650 Spark is positioned between conventional shipborne helicopters and smaller vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) drones. While helicopters provide significant range and payload capacity, they require substantial manpower, maintenance resources and operating costs. Smaller drones are easier to deploy but typically offer shorter endurance and limited payload capacity.

Elbit Systems said the Hermes 650 Spark is intended to deliver long-endurance missions while maintaining the flexibility required for maritime operations, allowing vessels to operate as remote launch and recovery platforms.

The system could support countries facing extensive maritime security challenges, including monitoring remote waters, protecting economic zones and maintaining awareness across strategically important regions. Elbit highlighted potential relevance for nations such as Japan, Denmark and Germany, where maritime geography and evolving security environments create demand for expanded surveillance capabilities.