ABSTRACT This paper presents, in a constitutive and functional approach, an original, improved performance directional relay which as proved to yield better results as compared to similar devices employed in relay protection circuits The directional relay described here has been designed to insure selectivity in maximal protection circuits for two-end supply networks and in transversal differential double-line protections, as well as to act as a component of long distance safeguarding of interconnected networks and as a protection device to prevent the engine operational status of synchron generators The scheme of the relay is based entirely upon static commutation. The working principle is based on controlling the phase differences between the current and the voltage in the circuit to be safeguarded through an electronic phase detector consisting of integrated circuits. The relay contains new elements as compared to traditionally adopted solutions and brings about certain technical and economical advantages, whereas its performances indicate it highly suitable for relay protection schemes in power systems.