ZALA T-24 Russian Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)

The new ZALA T-24 Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) is Russia's first purpose-built quadcopter UAV, representing a significant evolution in Russian tactical reconnaissance drone capabilities. Produced by ZALA Aero Group under Kalashnikov Concern, the system combines portability with sophisticated sensor and communications architecture. The ZALA T-24 embodies a deliberately minimalist design philosophy that prioritizes portability and rapid deployment over extended endurance. The aircraft features a compact folding frame that collapses for transport and fits within a secure carrying case alongside its control systems. This configuration enables tactical units to maintain organic reconnaissance capability without requiring dedicated logistical support or prepared launch facilities. The system achieves its 3.5 kg operational weight through electric propulsion, utilizing a multi-rotor (quadcopter) configuration that eliminates the mechanical complexity of fixed-wing platforms while providing vertical takeoff and rapid repositioning capabilities essential for adaptive battlefield reconnaissance.