The Mil Mi-24, known by its NATO reporting name "Hind," is a Russian-made attack helicopter and troop transport, recognized as one of the most iconic and heavily armed helicopters in the world. It has been in service since the 1970s and remains operational in many countries due to its versatility, durability, and firepower.
1. Development & Overview
Introduced: 1972 (first flight in 1969)
Role: Attack helicopter with a secondary capability to transport troops (up to 8 fully equipped soldiers). It combines the features of a helicopter gunship and a troop carrier.
Manufacturer: Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant, part of Russian Helicopters.
2. Key Features
Firepower:
Primary Armament:
Twin-barrel 23mm GSh-23L autocannon or 12.7mm Yak-B Gatling gun (depending on the variant).
Rocket pods for 57mm or 80mm unguided rockets.
Can be equipped with anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) like the 9M17P "Skorpion" or 9M114 "Shturm" missiles.
Secondary Armament: Up to 4 external hardpoints for a combination of bombs, rockets, and missiles.
Capability: Capable of engaging armored vehicles, ground targets, and low-flying aircraft.
Protection:
Armored Cockpit: Designed to protect the pilot and gunner from small arms fire and shrapnel.
Durable Frame: Built to withstand battlefield damage, with redundant systems to maintain flight even after being hit.
Self-Sealing Fuel Tanks: Reduce the risk of explosions after hits.
Mobility:
Engines: Twin turboshaft engines (either Klimov TV3-117 or VK-2500 depending on the version) providing high power and reliability.
Speed: Max speed around 335 km/h (208 mph), making it one of the fastest helicopters in its class.
Range: Approximately 450-500 km with internal fuel, extendable with auxiliary fuel tanks.
Crew: Usually 2-3 (pilot, co-pilot/gunner, and optionally a flight engineer).
Transport Capability: Can carry up to 8 fully armed troops or small cargo in the rear compartment, although its primary function is attack.
3. Variants
Mi-24A: Early production model with a simpler design and fixed landing gear.
Mi-24D: Improved version with a redesigned, armored cockpit for both pilot and gunner, tandem seating.
Mi-24V: Upgraded with more powerful ATGMs and improved electronics.
Mi-24P: Features a fixed 30mm cannon on the starboard side.
Mi-24 SuperHind: An upgraded variant produced by South Africa for export, featuring advanced avionics, upgraded weapon systems, and better survivability.
Mi-35: The export version of the Mi-24, with improved avionics and engines, and modified weaponry, still in production for foreign customers.
4. Operational Use
The Mi-24 has seen extensive use in numerous conflicts around the world, including:
Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989): Gained notoriety for its effectiveness in engaging Mujahideen forces, although vulnerable to man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS).
African and Middle Eastern Conflicts: Used by various countries in local and regional conflicts, including Libya, Syria, Angola, and Iraq.
Modern Conflicts: Continues to see action in conflict zones, including Eastern Europe, Syria, and Africa.
Users: Over 50 countries have operated the Mi-24, with some of the largest operators being Russia, India, Iraq, Afghanistan, Angola, and Syria.
5. Strengths and Limitations
Strengths:
Highly versatile, combining the roles of attack and troop transport.
Well-armed and capable of engaging a wide range of targets, including armor, infantry, and low-flying aircraft.
Rugged and reliable, with a reputation for surviving battlefield damage.
Limitations:
Larger and heavier than most modern attack helicopters, making it somewhat less agile.
Vulnerable to modern MANPADS and anti-aircraft artillery (AAA) due to its relatively low agility and large size.
Limited troop-carrying capacity compared to dedicated transport helicopters.
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