Decades after its initial conception, the Mil Mi-28 Havoc helicopter has carved its niche as a principal attack rotorcraft in the Russian Aerospace Forces, with a combat history that includes deployment in conflict zones like Syria and Ukraine.

Born out of the necessity to supersede the role of its predecessor, the Mil Mi-24 Hind, the Mi-28 was designed with speed, agility, and all-weather operational capabilities.

The development of the Mi-28 began in the 1980s, prompted by the Soviet Union’s direct challenge to rival the American Boeing AH-64 Apache.

However, it was not without its setbacks, facing competition from the Kamov Ka-50 “Black Shark,” and experiencing design hurdles that delayed its induction into service until 2009.

A comparison with its Western counterpart, the AH-64 Apache, reveals diverging design philosophies. The Mi-28 boasts advanced armor capable of withstanding small arms fire up to 14.5 mm and a 30 mm Shipunov 2A42 autocannon as its primary weapon.

Despite this impressive arsenal, the autocannon’s mounting causes notable reverberation upon firing, which can affect accuracy. These design choices prioritize robustness and firepower, particularly beneficial in high-threat environments.

The Mi-28 Havoc’s firepower is complemented by its ability to carry an assortment of rockets and missiles, including the Ataka-V anti-tank missiles and air-to-air missiles like the 9K333 Verba and Vympel R-73. Furthermore, it offers state-of-the-art surveillance and fire control systems, coupled with a helmet-mounted display for enhanced target acquisition.

The Mi-28’s service life has not been without continuous improvements, evident in the introduction of the latest “NM” model, featuring increased engine power and radar systems similar to those in jet aircraft, among other advancements. However, operational insights from its deployment in the Syrian Civil War and recent conflicts have shed light on areas requiring further improvements.

Particularly during the ongoing war in Ukraine, the Mi-28 has witnessed both victories and losses against Ukrainian forces, with several helicopters downed since the conflict’s escalation in 2022.

Despite its combat exposure, the Mi-28 has been involved in a competitive scene even within its own military, coexisting with the Kamov Ka-52 and Mi-35M.

Russian military service saw the Mi-28N Night Hunter, known as the Havoc by NATO, actively engaging in frontline attack missions, though its operational history includes both tactical victories and losses that led to critical upgrades and modifications.

Russian Army Aviation has been a significant operator of the Mi-28N, with over 100 units reported in service by 2019, including the Mi-28UB variant for pilot conversion and operational training. The latter variant features dual controls and an array of cockpit improvements for enhanced crew comfort and survivability.

The Mi-28’s combat experience, particularly in Ukraine, has demonstrated both its capabilities and the evolution of aerial combat strategies, especially in the face of advanced man-portable air defense systems.

A recent video emergence of a Mi-28 being shot down in Luhansk Oblast highlighted the risks even advanced aircraft face from portable systems like the US-made Stinger and Polish Piorun.

As with other Russian-made military equipment, there’s an export variant of the Mi-28. Known as the “NE,” it’s operated by the Algerian and Iraqi air forces.

Relevant articles:
– Mil Mi-28 Havoc: The Soviet-Era Attack Helicopter That Didn’t Enter Service Until 2009, War History Online
– Mean Havoc Rising, Key Aero
– [Updated] Video Emerges Of Russian Mi-28 Shot Down By MANPADS After Lobbing Rockets Over Eastern Ukraine, The Aviationist
– When America Stole a Russian Mi, The Armory Life