The Russian Ministry of Defence announced the use of the new Zarya laser system to combat drones. According to the department, the system destroyed medium and heavy UAVs at a range of up to 6 km at the Chebarkulsky training ground.

Zarya was deployed on October 2 during the main phase of the Tsentr-2026 strategic command and staff exercises. The Ministry of Defence did not disclose the laser's power, emitter type, or guidance system, so for now, all that is known about the system is that it is designed to engage aerial targets with laser radiation.

According to the Ministry of Defence, Zarya operated as part of an echeloned drone combat system. At other ranges, Citadel, ZAK-57-MSK, and S-60M anti-aircraft artillery systems, as well as Anklav anti-aircraft machine gun mounts, were used.

At close range, the Kalitka-KA robotic system was used. It received target designation from a radar station and the Uzor-K software complex, after which it engaged reconnaissance UAVs.