The article discusses the significant number of Russian helicopters that have been visually confirmed as destroyed or captured in Ukraine since 2022. According to aggregated data from open sources and reputable military analysis sites, the confirmed visual losses include:
* Around 60 Ka-52 “Alligator” attack helicopters
* Over 23 Mi-8/Mi-17 transport helicopters
* 13 Mi-24/Mi-35 attack helicopters
* 13 Mi-28N “Night Hunter” attack helicopters
These losses are significant because they represent a substantial portion of Russia’s operational helicopter fleet and have impacted the country’s ability to conduct air assaults, close air support, and logistical operations effectively. The article also highlights why these losses matter:
* They demonstrate the effectiveness of modern anti-air systems and guided missiles
* They signal a shift in air warfare dynamics, making helicopters more vulnerable in contested airspace
* They impact ground operations by limiting Russia’s ability to deploy troops, provide close air support, and evacuate wounded soldiers
* They provide valuable intelligence for Ukraine and its allies on Russian technology and tactics
* They have a psychological and morale impact on Russian forces
The article concludes that these incidents showcase the brutal realities of modern warfare and the effectiveness of determined defense against technologically advanced adversaries. The evolving methods used by Ukrainian forces highlight their strategic innovation and adaptation, and demonstrate a broader recalibration of air power effectiveness in the face of widely available and capable defensive systems.
