At the International Military Helicopter Conference IQPC 2025 in London, Lieutenant Colonel Emiliano Pellegrini of NATO’s Joint Air Power Competence Centre delivered a striking assessment of Russia’s evolving rotary-wing warfare in Ukraine including Ka-50, Ka-52, Mi-28 and Mi-35 helicopters.
Once deemed easy targets, Russian attack helicopters have transformed into a lethal force, making them a significant challenge for Ukrainian defenses. This shift results from improved tactics and technical advancements over three years, drastically reducing helicopter losses and altering the battlefield dynamics.
The Changing Face of Russian Air Power
Pellegrini’s analysis, based on open-source intelligence and reports from Defence Express and Flight Global, traces the evolution of Russia’s helicopter fleet. At the start of the war, Russia deployed 95 Mi-24/35 Hinds, 75 Ka-52 Alligators, and 55 Mi-28 Havocs. However, these helicopters suffered heavy attrition in the early months. By March 2023, Russia had destroyed 59 helicopters, shot down 42, and lost 17 on the ground. Such aircraft accounted for nearly 30% of Russia’s operational fleet.
Over the next year, helicopter losses declined significantly. Airborne shootdowns decreased by 52%, while ground-based attacks on helicopter bases rose by 40%. Preliminary 2025 data suggests that this downward trend continues, highlighting Russia’s ability to adapt its strategies and enhance its aircraft.
Ka-52: The Lethal Game Changer
The Ka-52 Alligator has been at the centre of this transformation. Weighing 10.8 tonnes, it is powered by two Klimov VK-2500 turboshaft engines, each delivering 2,400 horsepower. The combination enables a top speed of 300 km/h and a 460 km range.
The Ka-52, equipped with a 30 mm 2A42 autocannon, 12 Vikhr anti-tank guided missiles, unguided rockets, and Igla air-to-air missiles, is a formidable weapon. Its coaxial rotor design enhances manoeuvrability and stability, while upgraded night-vision optics and improved missile guidance systems have significantly extended its effectiveness in combat. The helicopter’s cockpit is reinforced with armour capable of withstanding 23 mm rounds, and its defensive suite includes infrared jammers and chaff/flare dispensers.
Mi-28 Havoc: Russia’s Resilient Gunship
Complementing the Ka-52 is the Mi-28 Havoc, a dedicated attack helicopter weighing 11.7 tonnes. Equipped with the same VK-2500 engines, it reaches speeds of 320 km/h and has a range of 450 km. Its 30 mm autocannon, 16 Ataka or Vikhr missiles, and advanced avionics make it a versatile strike platform.
Early in the war, the Mi-28’s vulnerability to man-portable airdefence systems (MANPADS) led to high losses. However, recent enhancements, including upgraded self-protection systems and electronic countermeasures, have significantly boosted its survivability. According to Dr Justin Bronk of RUSI, “The Mi-28’s resilience has grown—it’s no longer the sitting duck it was.”
Mi-24/35 Hind: The Battlefield Veteran
The Mi-24/35 Hind remains a key part of Russia’s attack helicopter fleet. Weighing 11.5 tonnes, it is powered by two TV3-117VMA engines, delivering a top speed of 335 km/h and a range of 450 km. Its arsenal includes a 12.7 mm Gatling gun, Shturm or Ataka missiles, and 80 mm rocket pods. Unlike the Ka-52 and Mi-28, the Hind also functions as a transport, capable of carrying eight troops into battle.
While its larger profile once made it more vulnerable, recent upgrades—such as better navigation systems and enhanced countermeasures—have improved its survivability. As Colonel Mark Schwartz, a retired NATO helicopter specialist, noted, “The Hind’s versatility keeps it relevant—it’s a survivor.”
Tactical Evolution: Ka-52 Early Losses
Russia’s helicopters initially suffered heavy losses due to outdated tactics. Pellegrini’s research indicates that 49% of first-year shootdowns were caused by MANPADS, 22% by anti-aircraft artillery, 17% by small arms, and 12% by anti-tank weapons in direct-fire mode. The Ka-52 accounted for 62% of these losses, followed by the Mi-24/35 at 21% and the Mi-28 at 17%.
Early in the war, Russian pilots employed outdated tactics, flying low and slow, making them easy targets for Ukrainian Stinger and Starstreak systems. By 2023, however, they had adapted, shifting to standoff engagements using long-range Vikhr missiles. This new strategy, combined with electronic warfare support from UAVs, led to a 52% drop in airborne losses.
Technological Upgrades Strengthen Russia’s Fleet
Russia’s helicopter resurgence isn’t just about tactics; technological advancements have played a crucial role. The Ka-52’s night-vision optics and missile guidance have been upgraded, while software improvements have mitigated its early vibration issues. The Mi-28 and Mi-35 have also received enhanced electronic countermeasures, reducing their vulnerability to MANPADS.
Oleksandr Pavlenko, a Ukrainian military analyst, acknowledged these improvements, stating, “Russia’s helicopters aren’t new, but they’re smarter now.” However, Ukraine has responded by intensifying drone strikes on Russian air bases, a countermeasure that has seen some success.
The Future of Helicopter Warfare in Ukraine
As of March 2025, Russia’s ability to adapt its helicopter strategies has shifted the balance of aerial combat. Ukrainian forces, once able to down multiple helicopters per month, now face a more elusive threat. A Ukrainian General Staff officer admitted, “They’re not invincible, but they’re harder to hit.”
Emerging threats, such as drones capable of engaging helicopters mid-flight, may alter the dynamics once again. Pellegrini cautioned that NATO must reassess its own rotary-wing strategies, noting, “If Russia can adapt this fast, what’s our counter?”
As the war progresses, Russia’s evolving helicopter tactics serve as a lesson in battlefield adaptation. Whether these improvements will be enough to sustain their edge remains to be seen, but for now, Ukraine faces a far deadlier aerial adversary than before.
