Russian Zala ‘Kama’ Surface Drone (USV)
Russian drone maker Zala presented two variants of their ‘Kama’ uncrewed surface vessel (USV) at the FLOT-26 defence show in Kronstadt, St. Petersburg (Zala display in vicinity 59.9965, 29.7358). The company is best known for their aerial drones, notably including the Lancet loitering munition.
The two versions were the same full form, one with inboard motor and one with two outboards. Both had the camera ball as a previously observed Russian USV, the type used to attack Odesa on 5th May. One of the USVs, the one with outboards, also had a surface search radar on the top of the A-frame mast.
The company reports that it is for civilian uses, including hydrographic surveys and environmental monitoring, but its military applications are clear. I’d suggest that this is a clearly military product.
Specifications
Length: 7 meters (est)
Speed: 12 knots cruising, 30 knots maximum
Range: 378 nautical miles (700 km)
Payload: 600 kg
Other manufacturer’s USVs at FLOT-26 appear to have been relatively vanilla. Although Zala have a strong track record as a defence manufacturer for the Russian government, it is unclear whether this is a Russian military project or simply a ‘me too’ product strategy.
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