The first ZALA hybrid aircraft flew the Izhevsk-Yoshkar-Ola-Izhevsk route

During a flight time of more than 12 hours, the ZALA 421-16E5G hybrid HLV covered a distance of more than 1,130 kilometres.

During the flight, the methodology of simultaneous use of the spacecraft by two flight teams with a new high-speed communication, control and relay system implemented at over-the-horizon control points located in different regions of the Russian Federation was practised. Implementation of such a system, where operators of the complex are located up to 500 kilometres away from the launch site, reduces the consumption of spacecraft resources, minimises the human factor and optimises the staff of operating units.

The flight tested the latest developments in navigation and intelligent information processing used in ZALA complexes.

New onboard visual navigation system (VNS). The system does not depend on satellite navigation and is implemented in a closed control loop, which allows the aircraft to fly in complete radio silence, fulfilling the assigned task, and also provides multi-level protection against electronic warfare. The system proved to be an order of magnitude more accurate than the inertial navigation system. 

The new on-board AIVI intelligent processing system was also demonstrated. The AIVI system in passive mode provides automatic detection and recognition of objects from several sources, with visibility of the entire lower hemisphere (360 degrees), which allows obtaining up-to-date information on the number and location of objects, changes in the situation right during the flight. This system allows to increase the area of BVS inspection by 30 times compared to standard detection means, eliminating the human factor when searching for objects of interest.

The flight was conducted in accordance with the Federal Aviation Regulations of the Russian Federation.