Russia Develops Kamov Ka-52M Alligator: Tank-Destroying Helicopters, Armored Vehicles To Enemy Aircraft

Illustrations Helicopter Kamov Ka-52. (Wikimedia Commons / Andrei Shmatko)

JAKARTA - Russian authorities are preparing the Kamov Ka-52M 'Alligator' attack/reconnaissance helicopter, which has been upgraded with various operational capabilities and weapons, for state trials, said Andrei Boginsky, CEO of the Russian Helicopter Group (part of state technology company Rostec).

"Now two helicopter prototypes have been made, and the trials have been completed. We have handed over these helicopters to the Ministry of Defense for joint state trials," he explained quoting TASS July 22.

The rotorcraft manufacturer launched experimental design work on the upgrade of the Ka-52 helicopter on the instructions of the head of defense of Russia in 2019, taking into account its combat work experience.

As the gunship designers say, the Ka-52M missile armament has been standardized with the Mil Mi-28NM helicopter gun range, another of Russia's advanced attack helicopters, which has helped to significantly increase the target destruction range.

As a gunship, this helicopter will be able to carry out direct fire at targets on the ground, or provide air support for troops on the ground.

The Ka-52M will be equipped with a new phased array radar station and long-range missiles. The upgraded fighter prototype made its debut flight on August 10, 2020. Deliveries of the mass-produced fighter to Russian troops will begin in 2022.

The Ka-52 'Alligator' reconnaissance/attack helicopter is designed to destroy tanks, armored and non-armored vehicles, support troops, helicopters and other enemy aircraft on the front lines and at tactical depths, in any weather conditions and at any time.

Not only that, the Russian Kamov Ka-52M 'Alligator' is equipped with modern avionics and powerful weaponry, while the coaxial rotor system and improved longitudinal control allow it to effectively maneuver and perform complex aerobatic operations.