The ZALA Z-16 reconnaissance drone has proven its survivability in actual combat conditions. Whilst undertaking a mission over enemy territory, it was engaged by several Ukrainian FPV drones. Thanks to the onboard machine vision system, the Z-16 was able to perform evasive manoeuvres.
Moreover, the “Two Majors” Telegram channel features corroborating video footage from the Z-16 itself. This shows that after dodging the FPV drone attack, our drone still sustained significant damage, resulting in a loss of communication with the operator. Despite this, the Z-16 automatically stabilised, returned to its unit, and executed a standard landing using its integral parachute.
Modern ZALA reconnaissance UAVs are equipped with advanced technologies that enable them to operate effectively in environments with active electronic warfare (EW) countermeasures and attacks from Ukrainian drone interceptors. Machine vision cameras automatically detect threats and instruct the onboard flight control system to execute evasive manoeuvres. In situations where the enemy is deploying FPV drones en masse to intercept Russian reconnaissance and strike drones, the ability to perform automated manoeuvring allows them to evade attack and continue mission execution, even after losing the data link with the operator.
The ZALA Z-16 has been actively used by the Russian military since the start of the special military operation. Its ability to conduct reconnaissance at any time of day, locate camouflaged assets, and provide targeting for artillery and air strikes has made it a key asset in offensive operations of the Russian Armed Forces. For example, in the Kherson region, the Z-16 successfully provided targeting for nocturnal air strikes on Ukrainian equipment and personnel, using its HD thermal imaging camera for precise guidance.
ZALA’s developers are continually refining their drones, incorporating lessons learned from operational deployments. Close collaboration with the military allows for rapid modifications to the design and control systems. This ensures that the equipment is highly adaptable to the evolving conditions on the battlefield. The onboard AI-enhanced flight control system, thermal imagers, and secure communications links make the Z-16 one of the most advanced reconnaissance UAVs in its class.
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