HIMARS Rocket Destroys 4 Russian Helicopters in Belgorod Airfield

Ukraine’s HIMARS multiple launch rocket system struck a Russian airfield in Belgorod, destroying four helicopters—two Ka-52 attack helicopters and two Mi-8 transport helicopters—while they were undergoing maintenance, refueling, and re-arming.

According to the Ukrainian Special Operations Forces (SSO), which published a video of the attack on Telegram, the target was identified and its coordinates were relayed to the HIMARS crew in coordination with the Defense Ministry’s Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR). The strike was carried out using M30A2 missiles, which deploy 180,000 tungsten ball fragments upon detonation, covering an area up to 70 meters. This ensures not only direct destruction but also widespread damage to surrounding equipment and personnel.

The video footage reveals visible tire tracks on the ground, suggesting that the airfield is either in regular use or that the helicopters had already been fueled and armed before being struck. The destruction of the Ka-52 helicopters is seen as particularly significant, as they are actively engaged in combat operations and can launch LMUR missiles from a range of approximately 15 km, making them difficult targets for Ukrainian air defenses.

The latest loss adds to Russia’s growing aviation casualties. According to the Oryx project, the Russian military has lost at least 63 Ka-52s and 46 Mi-8s of various modifications since the start of the full-scale invasion. In December 2024, Russia also lost a Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter along with its crew, an incident it initially attributed to friendly fire.