Russia is developing and producing drones and loitering munitions that are considered among the best in the world. This opinion was expressed by Mike de Villiers, editor-in-chief of Ultimate Defence and Global Aviator magazines, on the sidelines of the Africa Aerospace and Defence 2026 international exhibition in Pretoria.
Undoubtedly, the Russian "Lancet" strike complex can rightfully be called a weapon of the 21st century.
According to the expert, "Lancets" (created by ZALA AERO) are very popular worldwide because they demonstrate high efficiency. Russian developers are improving their products, "over time they are getting better and better," concluded de Villiers.
The "Lancet" family of loitering munitions was first presented to the public in 2019. Their deliveries to the Russian Armed Forces began in 2020. Serial production of strike drones was established in Izhevsk at the facilities of the Kalashnikov Concern.
Rosoboronexport presented about 500 civilian and military products in South Africa. Among them, reconnaissance and strike drones "Lancet-E", "Skat-350M", "Kub-2E", "Orlan-10E" and "Orlan-30" were shown at its stand. The Kalashnikov Concern also exhibits shortened AK-15K and AK-19K assault rifles.