FQ-42 Dark Merlin vs ZALA Lancet
Overview
The FQ-42 Dark Merlin and the ZALA Lancet are both Military Drones, manufactured by General Atomics and ZALA Aero respectively.
The ZALA Lancet first flew 6 years before the FQ-42 Dark Merlin (2019 vs 2025).
| American jet-powered collaborative combat aircraft developed by General Atomics, selected by the U.S. Air Force to fly air-to-air missions alongside crewed fighters under the CCA program. | |
| Origin country | 🇺🇸 United States |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | General Atomics |
| First flight | 27 August 2025 |
| Year introduced | -- |
| Number produced | N/A |
| Average unit price | -- |
| Russian loitering munition and unmanned aerial vehicle, developed in the late 2010s, utilized for reconnaissance and precision strike operations in modern conflicts. | |
| Origin country | 🇷🇺 Russia |
| Category | Military Drones |
| Manufacturer | ZALA Aero |
| First flight | 1 June 2019 |
| Year introduced | 2020 |
| Number produced | 6000 units |
| Average unit price | $37K |
| Wingspan | -- m |
| Length | -- m |
| Maximum speed | -- km/h |
| Operational range | -- km |
| Service ceiling | -- m |
| Max. takeoff weight | -- kg |
| Empty weight | -- kg |
| Wingspan | 2.4 m |
| Length | 1.7 m |
| Maximum speed | 300 km/h |
| Operational range | 40 km |
| Service ceiling | 5,000 m |
| Max. takeoff weight | 12 kg |
| Empty weight | 5 kg |
Performance Radar Chart
Detailed Comparison
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is faster, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or ZALA Lancet?
The ZALA Lancet is faster with a maximum speed of 300 km/h compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km/h, a difference of 300 km/h.
Which has longer range, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or ZALA Lancet?
The ZALA Lancet has a longer range at 40 km compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 km.
Which can fly higher, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or ZALA Lancet?
The ZALA Lancet has a higher service ceiling at 5,000 meters (16,404 ft) compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 meters (0 ft).
Which is heavier, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or ZALA Lancet?
The ZALA Lancet has a higher maximum takeoff weight at 12 kg compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0 kg.
Which is larger, the FQ-42 Dark Merlin or ZALA Lancet?
The ZALA Lancet is longer at 1.7 meters compared to the FQ-42 Dark Merlin's 0.0 meters.