Russian arms manufacturer Kalashnikov has unveiled a new Arctic drone that can operate at minus 50 degrees Celsius.
The ZALA Arctic drones are adapted for extreme conditions and capable of carrying out civilian and military tasks, according to the manufacturer.
The new drone was unveiled at the VIII International Forum ‘Arctic: Today and the Future’ in Russia’s second city St Petersburg.
Kalashnikov CEO Vladimir Dmitriyev said that the drones “provide safety for sea shipping and 24/7 protection of the perimeters” as well as “tracking the Arctic coast and territorial waters”.
The features of the ZALA 421-08M and ZALA 421-16E models include the ability to carry out a wide range of surveillance projects and regularly monitor the ice situation.
According to local media, the Arctic drones are capable of identifying ships at a distance of 100 kilometres (62 miles) and can gather information related to their speed, size and course, far exceeding the operational range of ground-based equipment.
The VIII International Forum was organised by the Association of Polar Explorers and showcased innovative ideas for protecting the northern regions.
The forum also discussed infrastructure projects, personnel training and the rights of indigenous people.
According to local media, around 2,000 participants were in St Petersburg for the ‘Arctic: Today and the Future’ event from over 20 different countries, including the Arctic Council member states.
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Story By: Sergey Panashchuk, Sub-Editor: Joseph Golder, Agency: Central European News
