The latest, upgraded, version of Russia’s Mi-28N “Night Hunter” helicopter gunship will be virtually invulnerable to enemy fire, Zvezda TV reported.
Even though it looks much like its predecessor, the Mi-28NM boasts the latest and most innovative materials available and is armed with the most advanced active defense systems money can buy.
The “Night Hunter” is also equipped with circular-view radar previously installed on export models only. However, according to the makers of the “Night Hunter”, the NO25E radar offers a notable improvement over even the export-oriented unit.
Another thing making the souped-up Mi-28NM so special is its unique laser system designed to deflect all existing heat-seeking missiles.
The moment the system “learns” about the helicopter being illuminated by enemy radar, it creates an invisible “fire cloud” near the rotorcraft effectively deflecting incoming missiles which, failing to engage their imaginary target, self-destruct.
Improved rotor blades will add 10% to the helicopters’ maximum speed of 340 kilometers per hour.
In July 2016,Russia's Rostvertol plant, manufacturing military and commercial helicopters, plans to supply domestic and foreign customers with over 120 Mi-28NE attack helicopters and multirole Mi-35M helicopters in 2016-2018, the company said in its annual report for 2015.
According to the report, the Rostvertol plant, which is part of the Russian Helicopters company, delivered 14 Mi-26 heavy cargo helicopters in 2012-2014 and six of these helicopters in 2015, and the plant has foreign orders for upgraded Mi-26T2 helicopters in 2016-2018.
“Mi-28NE attack helicopters and multirole Mi-35M helicopters are in constant demand on the internal and external markets: about 140 units were delivered in 2012-2014, and 28 helicopters were delivered in 2015. The expected volume of deliveries for 2016-2018 may amount to over 120 helicopters,” the report, obtained by RIA Novosti, read.
The Mi-28NE is a highly effective new-generation helicopter, designed for combat missions in any circumstances. The helicopter is designed to take part in operations against tanks, infantry combat vehicles and armored personnel carriers, among other targets. The Mi-35M is a modern multirole attack helicopter, equipped with the latest navigation and avionics technology and capable of operating in high temperatures and in mountainous terrain. It can be also used for medical and transportation purposes.
