The modernized Ka-52M attack helicopter of the Russian Aerospace Forces first took to the air five years ago, it was nicknamed the "Super Alligator". In the updated helicopter, flight characteristics were improved, on-board electronics were replaced and the range of guided missile weapons was expanded, the Ka-52M fully confirmed its characteristics in combat, said retired Major General Vladimir Popov.
According to him, with external similarity, the Ka-52M "Super Alligator" is significantly different from the Ka-52. New electronic warfare equipment, a more advanced sighting and navigation system and a communication complex allow us to say that this is essentially a completely new model of domestic military aviation equipment.
The radar image is displayed on the information display, the pilot can literally see the surrounding environment through the "eyes" of the helicopter. The characteristics of the new complex allow you to visually identify an object, a drone or, for example, a Bradley infantry fighting vehicle. The radar adaptively tracks both ground and air targets, greatly increasing the crew's awareness.
The new machine has a coaxial rotor system developed by the legendary aircraft designer Nikolai Kamov. Thanks to it, the helicopter has outstanding maneuverability and is capable of performing aerobatics and is quite easy to control.
Main characteristics of the Ka-52:
- Crew — 2 people (pilot and navigator-operator)
- Length — 16 m
- Engines — 2 VK-2500 gas turbine engines
- Maximum take-off weight — 10 800 kg
- Maximum speed — 300-350 km/h
- Practical ceiling — 5500 m
- Armament — 30-mm cannon, 80-mm unguided aircraft missiles, Vikhr-M anti-tank missiles
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