Russian Troops To Get Modernized Attack Helicopters In 2018

The delivery of Russia’s upgraded version of Mi-28NE Night Hunter attack helicopter is on schedule and will reportedly be handed over to the Russian defense ministry by 2018 end, the head of Russian Helicopters confirms to TASS.

The Ministry of Defence of Russia ordered two improved variants of Mi-28NM attack helicopters last year, which will feature an innovative helmet-mounted target designation and display system as part of its onboard radar equipment.

"Now a pre-production batch is underway and the contract is due to be completed in November this year. Correspondingly, we are complying with the schedule. So far, two helicopters are stipulated in the contract," Russian Helicopters Group CEO Andrei Boginsky was quoted as saying on Tuesday.

The Mi-28NM is a modernized version of the Mi-28N Night Hunter attack helicopter; it is being upgraded to become a fifth-generation gunship. The project has been in the works since 2009.

The helicopter features a 360-degree radar and advanced weapons guidance system that ensure faster target acquisition through an upgrade to the Mi-26NM's fire control system. Unlike its predecessor, the Mi-28NM can be piloted by the gunner and is better suited for the use of high-precision ordnance.

Earlier, Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yuri Borisov had said that this helicopter will be main attack helicopter of Russian Armed forces in next 10 years.