BETHESDA, Md. — Mistral Inc. and UVision have successfully completed the first Lot Acceptance Tests (LAT) for the HERO 120 loitering munition system under the U.S. Army's Lethal Unmanned System (LUS) program, marking an important step toward fielding the system with Army units.
According to the companies, all HERO 120 systems successfully completed the required acceptance-test missions during the recent testing event. The results support continued progress toward operational deployment under the Army's LUS program.
The LUS program is managed under the Precision Strike Reconnaissance System (PSRS) portfolio within the Capability Portfolio Executive for Mission Autonomy, which oversees the development and fielding of advanced autonomous capabilities for the U.S. Army.
HERO 120 Moves Closer to Army Fielding
The successful completion of the first Lot Acceptance Tests confirms that the evaluated HERO 120 systems met the Army's required acceptance-test objectives. The milestone allows the program to continue toward broader fielding across Army units.
Mistral Inc. and UVision are jointly delivering the HERO 120 under a $982 million multi-year Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract awarded in October 2025. The contract covers procurement, fielding, training, and sustainment of the system for the U.S. Army, with initial deliveries scheduled to begin in early 2026.
HERO 120 Designed for Reconnaissance and Precision Strike
The HERO 120 is a mid-range loitering munition designed to provide tactical units with both reconnaissance and precision-strike capabilities. The system is intended to give soldiers greater operational flexibility while operating in complex battlefield environments.
The munition uses a pneumatic launch system and features a gimbaled electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) seeker supported by advanced image processing technology.
A key capability of the HERO 120 is its man-in-the-loop control, which allows the operator to maintain control throughout the mission. Operators can observe, identify, track, and engage both moving and stationary targets. If battlefield conditions change, they can abort an attack during flight or redirect the munition to another target.
According to the companies, the system is also designed to operate in GPS-denied environments while maintaining precision accuracy and minimizing collateral damage.
Previously released specifications state that the HERO 120 carries an approximately 4.5-kilogram warhead, has an operational range of approximately 40 to 60 kilometers, and can remain airborne for up to 60 minutes. The system is compatible with multiple launch platforms, including vehicles, and can also be operated by infantry teams.
Companies Share Responsibilities
Mistral Inc. serves as the U.S.-based prime contractor and systems integrator for the program. The company is responsible for system integration, the lethality package, program management, and sustainment.
UVision serves as the design authority for the HERO 120. The company supports the system's development, manufacturing, and delivery and also provides training and sustainment support for the HERO family of loitering munitions.
Together, the companies are responsible for delivering the systems and supporting Army units throughout fielding and operational service.
Company Statements
Yoav Banai, Senior Vice President at Mistral Inc., said the successful testing represents an important milestone for the companies and the U.S. Army.
"Completing the first Lot Acceptance Tests is an important milestone for Mistral Inc., Uvision, and the U.S. Army. The successful completion of all required acceptance test HERO 120 missions reflects the shared commitment of both companies to deliver reliable, effective, and mission-ready capability to our warfighters. Mistral Inc. and Uvision are proud to support this Army program and remain focused on providing warfighters with the tools they need to win the fight."
Jarmin Blanton, Vice President of Business Development, Sales & Marketing at UVision Inc., said the milestone demonstrates the close cooperation between the Army and industry partners.
"Uvision is proud to support the U.S. Army's LUS program. As the design authority for HERO 120, Uvision is committed to delivering a mature, reliable, and combat effective system that exceeds the operational needs of the soldier. This LAT milestone reflects the close collaboration between the Army, Mistral Inc., Uvision, and the broader program team, and we look forward to continuing our support as the program advances."
Next Phase
Following the successful completion of the first Lot Acceptance Tests, the HERO 120 program will continue toward active fielding with the U.S. Army. In addition to supplying the systems, Mistral Inc. and UVision will continue providing training and sustainment support to help ensure Army personnel are prepared to operate and maintain the HERO 120 throughout its service life.
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