What Makes KA-52 A Nightmare For Ukraine's Tanks

Emerging from the lineage of Russian rotary-wing engineering, the KA-52 Alligator (NATO designation Hokum-B), is a highly manoeuvrable helicopter that can destroy enemy armoured and unarmoured ground targets, tanks, low-speed aerial targets and personnel at the frontline and in tactical depth.

Developed as a two-seat variant of the Ka-50 Hokum-A, the KA-52 stems from the Kamov family of aircraft, known for their distinctive co-axial rotor system. This innovative design negates the need for a tail rotor, conferring both aerodynamic and combat advantages, particularly in terms of reduced vulnerability to enemy fire.
The introduction of a second crew member enabled a division of workload, with one pilot navigating and the other engaging with adversaries, thus optimizing the aircraft's combat operations.

The design of the KA-52 prioritizes protection. Its cockpit is armored to resist 23mm rounds. Its co-axial rotor design is notable not just for aerodynamic reasons but also for the redundancy it provides. If one rotor fails, the other can keep the aircraft airborne.
When it comes to armaments, the 2A42 30mm cannon stands out in the KA-52's arsenal. It has six external hardpoints that can be equipped with various anti-armor and anti-aircraft missiles.
The Ka-52 is equipped with two primary anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) choices. The 9M120-1 Ataka-1 covers a distance up to 3.7 miles (5.95 km), while the 9A4172K Vikhr-1 targets ranges between 5-6 miles (8-9.6 km). Both employ laser beam-riding guidance, but 9M120 missiles can also utilize radio-command guidance. Uniquely, the Ka-52 is the predominant Russian attack helicopter capable of using the 9A4172K Vikhr-1.

An anticipated upgrade for the Ka-52 is the advanced LMUR anti-armor missile, which boasts a range of about 9 miles (14.5 km). This missile enhances its standoff capability. The LMUR is tied to the upcoming Ka-52M model, which hasn't been observed in Ukraine, though the missile has been launched from different platforms.

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