UMEX 2026 – Zala unveils new KPU 51E disposable launcher

At UMEX 2026, Zala unveiled a new disposable catapult launcher for launching the most powerful loitering munition in the Lancet-E series, the Izdeliye 51E

The launcher consists of a tripod-mounted aluminum alloy tubular guide. The lower section houses a pyrotechnic cartridge that activates a metal ejector rod to which the loitering munition is attached.

The new launcher is designed to dramatically improve the operational efficiency of the Izdeliye 51E. Unlike a traditional vehicle-mounted launcher, it allows even a single-person crew to deploy the system and launch the munition in less than a minute.

After completing its mission, the launcher requires no disassembly or evacuation, ensuring high unit stealth and unprecedented combat mobility.

Zala told EDR On-Line that the KPU 51E has already successfully completed combat testing and is in serial production.

The new single-use launcher complements the Lancet-E reconnaissance and strike system, which now includes the Zala Z-16E reconnaissance unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) for target acquisition; loitering munitions with double X-shaped tails – the Izdeliye 51E and Izdeliye 52E; and the KPU 51E single-use launcher.

Photos by N. Novichkov