Russia has lost another Ka-52 “Alligator” attack helicopter, with reports indicating that both crew members were killed in the crash.
The incident, which occurred on October 27, was first reported by Militarnyi after analyzing multiple statements from pro-Kremlin military bloggers and unofficial Russian defense channels.
Early in the morning, Russian Telegram channels began posting reports that a Ka-52 had gone down, and prominent military bloggers later confirmed that the crew did not survive. However, none of the Russian sources specified the cause of the crash.
According to Militarnyi, Ukrainian officials have not claimed responsibility for shooting down the helicopter, suggesting that the loss was likely the result of a technical malfunction or pilot error.
Russian attack helicopter crews often operate at extremely low altitudes and high speeds to avoid detection by both Ukrainian air defense systems and drones — a practice that carries increased risks of collision or mechanical failure.
The Ka-52, manufactured by Kamov and operated by the Russian Aerospace Forces, is designed to engage armored vehicles, enemy aircraft, and ground targets, while also performing reconnaissance missions. It is equipped with advanced targeting systems, heavy armor, and precision-guided weapons.
Despite its firepower and advanced sensors, the Ka-52 has proven vulnerable to Ukrainian short-range air defense systems and man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS). Since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Ukrainian forces have repeatedly shot down Ka-52 helicopters in various regions, including near Kherson and Zaporizhzhia.
According to the independent open-source project Oryx, Russia has lost at least 64 Ka-52 helicopters since February 24, 2022.
The loss of yet another Ka-52 underscores ongoing challenges for Russia’s attack aviation units, which continue to face attrition from both combat engagements and mechanical failures. The Ka-52 fleet has played a key role in Russian operations along the front, providing air support and strike capability, but sustaining heavy losses amid Ukraine’s expanding air defense network.
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