Russia Launches UAV With Vertical Takeoff And Landing Capability

JAKARTA - Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) manufacturer, aka unmanned aircraft from Russia, Zala Aero, officially launched a UAV drone that can take off and land vertically at the 'MAKS 2021 International Aviation and Space Salon' exhibition which will take place on July 20-25.

Named ZALA VTOL, the manufacturer claims this UAV has various advantages, equipped with a series of advanced technologies, in a statement at the launch.

"The ZALA VTOL combines the properties of an aircraft-type drone and a tilt-rotor aircraft. The flight configuration changes depending on the assigned mission. The electric propulsion system allows the aircraft to be in the air for up to 4 hours, providing a range of up to 200 km in the aircraft configuration," explained the company. as quoting TASS Wednesday 21 July.

One of the advantages of ZALA is the ZX1's built-in on-board computer based on artificial intelligence, enabling it to process Full HD format data, capable of transmitting high-resolution videos and photos over an encrypted communication link to ground control stations.

"This allows the operator to receive monitoring data even before the drone lands," said Zala Aero.

The core function of ZALA VTOL is to monitor and photograph the aerial from places or facilities in hard-to-reach areas.

"This can be used to monitor industrial infrastructure, create photographic maps of an area and support the security of ground facilities. This UAV is already operating in Latin American states," said Zala.

Meanwhile, launching Thedefensepost, ZALA does not require a specially equipped launch site. It is fully compatible with all existing ZALA payloads and features software and hardware solutions in line with the ZALA Aero Group UAV model line.

Additionally, the encrypted 500 gigabyte solid-state drive in the ZALA VTOL allows the drone to store and transfer extensive 24 megapixel photos and video footage.

To note, in addition to the ZALA VTOL, Russia has launched a small rotary wing drone BAS-200 equipped with a mobile control post mounted on a car trailer. The drone can be used to monitor terrain and deliver cargo up to 50 kilograms (110 pounds).