AI, HD video over 100km: what we know about Russia's ZALA Z-20 UAV downed by Ukrainian military

Contents

1. How did the defeat of ZALA Z-20 become known?
2. What is ZALA Z-20?
3. How does ZALA Z-20 differ from previous models?
4. Technical characteristics of ZALA Z-20
5. Is it possible to fight ZALA Z-20 drones?
6. Who manufactures ZALA Z-20?

How did the defeat of ZALA Z-20 become known?

The general public learned that Ukrainians had shot down a ZALA Z-20 drone in late August 2024. At that time, Ukrainian volunteer Serhii Sternenko, while promoting a fundraiser for drones for the Ukrainian Armed Forces, showcased a video of their operations.

"This is what thousands of saved lives, protected Ukrainian equipment, and blinded Russian intelligence look like," the volunteer commented.

Among the 115 downed drones, the Powerful Informer Telegram channel identified the Russian reconnaissance drone Z-20 from Zala Aero. The video is effectively the first documented destruction of this UAV.

"There is a suspicion that this drone was guiding Lancet strikes on Dolhyntseve and other targets 70 km from the front line," the author emphasized.

Photo: aviation21

What is ZALA Z-20?

The ZALA Z-20 is a Russian unmanned aerial vehicle powered by an electric motor. Its primary function is reconnaissance and surveillance of various targets. It is also used to adjust artillery fire and monitor the battlefield. Most likely, the Z-20 is primarily tasked with locating targets for another drone produced by Zala Aero, the Lancet.

The first Z-20 drones were publicly showcased in 2023. Manufacturers claim that the electric engine allows the aircraft, with a wingspan of four meters, to remain airborne for over six hours in patrol mode. It is said to be capable of transmitting high-quality video over distances of more than 100 kilometers.

The Russians claim that the ZALA Z-20 is equipped with an onboard computer using advanced artificial intelligence algorithms, enabling quick decision-making. The UAV is launched from a pneumatic catapult and is designed to land using a parachute and an air cushion for shock absorption.

How does ZALA Z-20 differ from previous models?

The Z-20 can be considered a successor to the ZALA Z-16 drones. The previous model is smaller (with a wingspan of 2.8 meters and a weight of 10.5 kg, compared to the Z-20's 4 meters and 17 kg), and it has a more limited payload and flight range. However, it is equipped with similar video technology, an electric motor, and operates on the same principle. Additionally, the ground equipment for the Z-20 is fully compatible with the Z-16 model.

In its promotional presentation, the company highlighted several advantages of the Z-20, such as resistance to radio interference, a low radar cross-section (making the drone harder to detect), signal relay capabilities, a secure communication channel, and resistance to electronic warfare and air defense systems. The onboard AI also assists in locating and identifying objects, selecting priority targets.

Technical characteristics of ZALA Z-20

Photo: www.turbosquid.com

• Communication range: 100+ km 
• Flight duration: 6+ hours  
• Maximum weight: 17 kg  
• Payload capacity: up to 2.5 kg 
• Wingspan: 4 meters  
• Effective operational altitude: 100-5000 meters  
• Speed range: 65-110 km/h  
• Operating temperature range: -40°C to +50°C  
• Maximum wind speed: 15 m/s

Is it possible to fight ZALA Z-20 drones?

The fact that Ukrainian Defense Forces successfully targeted Russia’s latest reconnaissance drone indicates that this is possible, meaning claims of "electronic warfare resistance" and "radar invisibility" are likely exaggerated by the Russians.

Moreover, the Ukrainian Armed Forces have repeatedly downed drones produced by Zala Aero. For instance, in August 2024, soldiers of the 110th Mechanized Brigade used modified FPV drones to shoot down a Russian ZALA Z-16 UAV in the Donetsk region. Footage shows the Ukrainian FPV drone rising to altitude, pursuing, and attacking the Russian fixed-wing UAV.

Additionally, soldiers of Ukraine’s 47th Separate Mechanized Brigade used FPV drones to shoot down two Zala reconnaissance UAVs in the Pokrovsk sector.

Who manufactures ZALA Z-20?

ZALA Aero Group is a Russian company specializing in the development of drones, based in Izhevsk. The company is part of the Kalashnikov Concern.

The controlling owner, with a 50.85% stake, is Izhevsk businessman Alexander Zakharov, who also serves as the chief designer. His son Nikita and daughter Maria are also involved in the business, with their companies being the largest suppliers.

Interestingly, another of Zakharov's sons, Lavrentiy, along with his mother Svetlana, owns an apartment worth £1.5 million in an upscale area of London. Despite his father producing drones used to attack Ukraine, as of 2023, Lavrentiy was working at the United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research.