Defense News ,Russia :- ZALA Aero, a subsidiary of the renowned Kalashnikov Group, has recently introduced its latest innovation in the field of military technology — the Izdeliye 55 (Product 55) loitering munition. Promising heightened effectiveness, this cutting-edge development draws inspiration from the battle-tested Lancet drone utilized in Ukraine. The Russian company asserts that Izdeliye 55 will boast enhanced resistance against electronic warfare and jamming techniques.
According to the official announcement, Izdeliye 55 is designed as a short-range munition, deploying from a container launcher. Similar to its predecessor, the Lancet drone, the Izdeliye 55 features an X-shaped aircraft configuration. Positioned at the nose section, an advanced optoelectronic module will transmit Full HD quality images in real-time, providing the operator with the flexibility to select the optimal approach angle to the target. While the specifics of ensuring the operator safety remain undisclosed, ZALA Aero assures that deploying Izdeliye 55 ensures a secure operation.
The new loitering munition is equipped with a 5kg warhead, and its operational range is reported to extend up to 50km. The methodology behind achieving Izdeliye 55 resistance to interference is yet to be disclosed. Theoretically, it could emulate Western anti-tank guided missiles by employing fiber-optic control. Alternatively, enhancing the munition autonomy is suggested, albeit at the potential cost of limiting the operator involvement.
ZALA Aero disclosed that during the war in Ukraine from February 2022 to December 29, 2023, a total of 872 Lancet loitering munitions were deployed, showcasing an impressive 80% success rate in hitting targets — a total of 698 successful target hits. Notably, Lancets have become a favored choice among Russian forces as a substitute for long-range anti-tank guided missiles.
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