Dubai Airshow 2025 – ZALA unveils new versions of the Lancet-E loitering munition
ZALA unveiled a new generation of the Lancet-E reconnaissance and strike system in Dubai, these loitering munitions having now improved performances
EDR On-Line previously reported on this system, but its capabilities have been expanded, and a number of its performance characteristics have been improved. The system consists of a ZALA Z-16E reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and four loitering munitions: the Izdeliye 51E, Izdeliye 51E-IR, Izdeliye 52E, and Izdeliye 52E-IR. The “IR” (infrared) designation for the munitions indicates that a thermal imaging guidance system is used. The integration of all components into a single system enables a closed-loop system, from target reconnaissance to engagement with precision weapons.
A key upgrade of the new export version of the Lancet-E is the adoption of vision algorithms integrated into the ZALA Z-16E reconnaissance UAV. This solution enables automatic target detection, identification, and tracking in real time. The Z-16E’s hardware has also been upgraded. Specifically, the updated data transmission platform ensures stable communications at ranges of up to 50 km. The upgraded Z-16E has a flight endurance of 3.5 hours.
The performance of the Lancet system’s loitering munitions has also been improved. The Izdeliye 51E/51E-IR now has a range of up to 45 km, while the Izdeliye 52E/52E-IR range was improved at up to 35 km. Furthermore, the flight time has been nearly doubled, the Izdeliye 51E/51E-IR being now able to operate for 50 minutes, the Izdeliye 52E/52E-IR endurance being now 30 minutes.
All versions of the munitions can be equipped with four types of warheads: shaped-charge, shaped-charge fragmentation, explosively-formed projectile fragmentation, and thermobaric. Warheads are selected and installed depending on the type of target being engaged.
According to ZALA, as of November 2025, Lancet missiles have destroyed over 4,000 targets. These include over 500 tanks of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including more than 60 NATO tanks (Abrams, Leopard 2, and Challenger 2). Additionally, more than 260 American M777 towed howitzers, over 100 M109 self-propelled howitzers, over 60 Polish AHS Krab self-propelled artillery units, and hundreds of other high-tech vehicles were destroyed. These included American Bradley infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) and HIMARS multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS), which the Ukrainian Armed Forces strive to employ from concealed and remote positions.
Another innovation of the Lancet system was the creation of a single-use launcher. The launcher’s design ensures compactness and increased crew safety during combat missions.
Photos N. Novichkov
