According to British estimates, Russia is losing a particularly large number of attack helicopters in the war of aggression against Ukraine. Since the invasion began in February, there have been at least 23 confirmed losses of the Russian Ka-52 attack helicopter (NATO code: Hokum-B), the Defense Ministry in London said Tuesday based on intelligence findings.
That’s more than a quarter of Russia’s operational fleet of 90 Ka-52s and nearly half of Russia’s total helicopter losses in Ukraine.
No fighter jet protection
The Russian attack helicopters would be destroyed mainly by so-called manpads, that is, portable anti-aircraft systems, it said in London. In addition, they have less protection against fighter jets than foreseen in Russian military doctrine. The British Ministry ruled that Russia is still unable to provide effective air support. In addition, the artillery ammunition is running out. “Russian commanders are likely to increasingly resort to high-risk attack helicopters as one of the few options available to support troops at close range.”
The British Ministry of Defense has published daily information on the course of the war since the start of Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine in late February, citing intelligence information. With this, the British government wants to both counter the Russian portrayal and keep allies in line. Moscow accuses London of a targeted disinformation campaign.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
