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The UOR contract, which is being fulfilled by Thales UK through an innovative service provision contract, includes ongoing training, maintenance and support as well as the supply of the aircraft and associated systems.

The first in-theatre delivery took place on 14th June 2007, followed by the first flight six days later. ‘Initial Operating Capability' was confirmed on 5th July and, since then, the Hermes 450 has been regularly flying in support of operations, providing persistent ISTAR coverage and delivering very high quality visual and IR imagery, day and night.

Thales's swift response was "a truly reliable and stunning performance for our UK troops," according to a senior officer in theatre. "The H-450 ISTAR capability allows immediate and rapid reaction to a threat, with unmatched flexibility and minimum maintenance to support UK forces in adverse conditions. It's made a considerable difference to our capability."