The Ukrainian Armed Forces successfully destroyed a Russian military unmanned aerial vehicle utilized for targeting Lancet kamikaze drones. This particular drone is known as ZALA 421-16E2.
Here’s What We Know: The ZALA 421-16E2 is a recently developed drone that distinguishes itself from other models within the ZALA series due to its impaired camera capabilities. It shares the same system as the Lancet-3 and Lancet-3M kamikaze drones.
The downed UAV bears the flight number “0725 1,” indicating its classification as a new version of the drone. Previous instances of downed drones followed a different format with XXX flight numbers.
The reconnaissance drone was designed by the Russian company ZALA Aero Group. The standard variant of the ZALA 421-16E2 (depicted below) weighs up to 7.5kg, possesses a wingspan of 2.8m, and boasts a flight duration of 4 hours. Its communication range exceeds 30 km.
Equipped with an electric motor, the ZALA 421-16E2 can achieve speeds of up to 125 km/h. It is capable of effectively operating at altitudes of up to 5 km. Launching the drone involves a pneumatic launcher, while landing is facilitated by a parachute system.