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Ukrainian forces shot down a Russian ZALA Z-20 reconnaissance drone with a General Cherry AIR interceptor, as reported by the Melitopol partisan detachment. The ZALA Z-20, valued at approximately $200,000, features AI for target detection and prioritization.

The interception was carried out by a crew from the 55th Separate Artillery Brigade. The General Cherry AIR interceptor costs around $1,135 and has specifications including a flight time of 35 minutes and a maximum speed of 170 km/h.

Over 300 UAV interceptions have been recorded in Ukraine, targeting various Russian drones. The ZALA Z-20 is designed for surveillance and artillery adjustment, with a wingspan of about four meters and a flight range exceeding 100 km.

Ukraine is enhancing its drone interception capabilities in response to increased threats, with plans to produce up to 800 interceptor drones daily. Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal noted Russia’s ability to launch up to 800 drones in a single night.