Kalashnikov ZALA Lancet-3

 Russian Federation Unmanned Aerial System04-03-2024

ZALA’s Lancet is an Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) unveiled in 2019. The lightweight system performs kamikaze-style attacks alone or in swarms. The Lancet-3 is a larger version of the Lancet-1, with more explosive power and speed.

Basic Weapon Facts

I. Background

1. Manufacturer: ZALA (Kalashnikov Group)
2. Suppliers: Unknown
3. Country of origin: Russian Federation
4. Developmental stage: Operational
5. System version: Unknown
6. System type: UAS

II. General Specifications

III. Autonomy

Autonomous Targeting capabilities:

According to the manufacturer, the lancet is “capable of autonomously finding and hitting a target” by means of various targeting systems: a coordinate system, an optoelextronic system, and a combined system. Research of the drones suggests that “Western components” used in it allow the system to have “advanced targeting capabilities it would not have otherwise”, including “AI image processing capabilities” that “allow the drone to autonomously seek and track specific objects alone or in groups.”

Sources

1. Manufacturer website:
   https://en.kalashnikovgroup.ru/media/bespilotnye-letatelnye-apparaty/kalashnikov-predstavil-vysokotochnyy-udarnyy-bespilotnyy-kompleks-zala-lantset
2. News reports:
   • Army 2019 Zala Aero Unveils New Loitering Munitions  (Army Recognition)
   • Russian Lancet 3 Kamikaze Drone Filled With Foreign Parts  (Isis Online)

Avi Perera

Avi is a researcher educated at the University of Cambridge, specialising in the intersection of AI Ethics and International Law. Recognised by the United Nations for his work on autonomous systems, he translates technical complexity into actionable global policy. His research provides a strategic bridge between machine learning architecture and international governance.