Russian reconnaissance units have begun using the latest ZALA Z drone on the Kharkov front to locate Ukrainian positions and direct artillery and airstrikes against them. The new aircraft can automatically detect and evade enemy interceptor drones. An engineer-technician with the callsign Vesyoly told RIA Novosti about its capabilities.

The UAV is now operated by the 46th Separate Reconnaissance Battalion of the 11th Army Corps, part of Russia’s Sever Group of Forces. According to Vesyoly, the ZALA Z is a more affordable replacement for an earlier model, costing ten times less while retaining the capabilities needed for reconnaissance missions.

A major advantage of the new aircraft is its ability to operate without being detected by the enemy. Its metal body, completely silent engine and low-altitude maneuverability allow it to remain hidden while carrying out missions. The drone also features an intelligent system that recognizes approaching enemy interceptors and automatically performs evasive maneuvers to avoid being shot down.

The ZALA Z is also designed for rapid deployment. One soldier can easily carry the compact aircraft under an arm and launch it from a catapult almost anywhere within five minutes. Unlike drones that rely on parachutes for recovery, this model lands directly in a field in the same manner as a conventional airplane. Once its battery has been replaced, it is ready for another mission.

Despite its compact design, the aircraft can operate far beyond the immediate battlefield. Its battery provides up to 90 minutes of flight time, allowing it to penetrate 70 kilometers into enemy territory and return to its launch site. Equipped with high-quality cameras for both daytime and nighttime surveillance, the ZALA Z enables Russian reconnaissance teams to identify targets and coordinate strikes by long-range artillery and aviation.