Russia's attack helicopters: Evolving Ukrainian nightmare
Russia has deployed two-thirds of its combat-ready attack helicopters in the conflict against Ukraine. Changes in Russian tactics have rendered these machines—according to Western sources—Ukrainians' "worst nightmare."
225 attack helicopters of various types have been deployed by Russia in Ukraine, as claimed by Janes Defence. This number includes 95 Mi-24 and Mi-35 models, 75 Ka-52 models, and 55 Mi-28 helicopters. This constitutes about two-thirds of the 340 combat-ready helicopters at the Russian army's disposal.
So far, according to Oryx's data, the destruction of at least 18 Mi-24/35 helicopters, 64 Ka-52s, and 16 Mi-28s—a total of 98 units—has been documented. Statistically, the oldest and most numerous models, developed in the 1960s, known as "devil's chariots," are proportionally the least destroyed.
Destruction of Russian Ka-52
Significant attention is also drawn to the substantial losses among the most technologically advanced Ka-52 helicopters. It's challenging to determine whether these losses result from the particular vulnerability of these machines or from deploying them for the most difficult and risky missions.
Western experts note that Russian helicopters, which were relatively easy targets for Ukrainians at the beginning of the war, have become a "true nightmare" for them over time. This change is attributed to the evolving Russian tactics in their use, making them very difficult to shoot down.
Helicopters out of missile range
This was evident, among other instances, during the failed Ukrainian offensive, when Russian attack helicopters served as mobile launchers for guided anti-tank missiles.
They operated many kilometres from the front line, over their own formations, where they were out of range of Ukrainian MANPADS (man-portable air-defence systems, such as the FIM-92 Stinger or PPZR Piorun). At the same time, thanks to the range of their guided anti-tank missiles, they were able to effectively combat Ukrainian vehicles.
