MI-28N

Attack helicopters "Apache" and " Night Hunter"(NATO designation - “Havoc”) - single-rotor vehicles with a fixed landing gear and tail support, 2 engines in nacelles on the sides of the fuselage, tandem crew arrangement, X-shaped tail rotor. “Hunter” is almost 3 tons heavier than the American, but it has more powerful engines (2 x 2200 hp versus 2 x 1930 hp); its power-to-take-off weight ratio is better, which clearly characterizes the higher design perfection of the aircraft and its flight characteristics. And the maximum combat load for the Apache is 771 kg, and for the Mi it is 2300 kg.

AN-64A Apache

The visibility from the Apache's cabins is limited forward, down and back; The Mi has a better view, and the faces of the crew are closer to the glazing panels. The American's glass area is larger, its panels have some convexity, while the Mi's are flat, which can create unidirectional glare of light in the cabin ("spotlight effect"), interfering with the reading of instruments. In general, the review for both is approximately the same.

Above the main rotor hub of the “Hunter” there is a radar station in a spherical fairing; on the “Apache” it is in the form of a thick “cake”. In fact, both helicopters are very similar in appearance; from afar, from a certain angle of view, they can even be confused. The opinions of alien patriots are funny, for example: “The better detection and targeting system allowed the Americans to remove excess armor from the helicopter and increase the speed wall.”

So, the “speed”: the Apache has a maximum of 365 km/h, the Mi-28N has a maximum of 324 km/h, that is, the difference is small, but their cruising speed is the same - 260 km/h.

AN-64A Apache

But the Yankees did not remove the “excess armor”, it simply did not exist, because their approach to the issue of armor protection of combat helicopters is completely different from ours. Their designers cover only the crew with armor, and sometimes it is absent altogether; It is believed that the salvation of a rotorcraft in battle is its stealth and maneuverability. And if an enemy shell hits, it can be easily let in and out by a thin panel on the side wall. What if there is a pilot sitting behind the projectile entry point? Or is a vital node located? In the conditions of modern combat, saturated with air defense systems, an armored helicopter has a better chance of surviving than its more maneuverable, secretive, but weakly protected counterpart.

By Western standards, the Apache is decently armored: the cockpit is covered on the sides and bottom with Kevlar and polyacrylate armor plates that can withstand hits from a 23-mm projectile. The engine and transmission are not armored; the principle of protecting more important structural components by less important ones is applied here; many parts are oversized and have increased strength, also withstanding a hit from a 23-mm projectile. The emphasis on this caliber was not made by chance; according to the experience of wars of the 20th century, anti-aircraft artillery of the ZSU-23-4 “Shilka” type is the most dangerous for a helicopter. “Apache” has a large number of flat surfaces and a special matte dark green color that reduces glare. The Americans believe that the weak armor is compensated by the helicopter’s fairly low visibility and good maneuverability (by the way, the Okhotnik has the same visibility in all ranges).

MI-28N

The Milevtsy approached the armor according to the old principle of Russian gunsmiths “you can’t spoil the porridge with butter”: the armored crew cabin (“bathtub”) is completely protected by 10 mm aluminum sheets, onto which 16 mm ceramic tiles are glued; doors - made of two layers of aluminum armor and a layer of polyurethane between them; windshields - silicate blocks 42 mm thick, side windows - the same blocks 22 mm thick. Both cockpits are separated by a 10-mm aluminum armor plate to prevent both pilots from being hit by one shot. Fire tests have shown that the sides can withstand bullets from the American 20-mm Vulcan machine gun, the windshield can withstand 12.7 mm bullets, and the side windows can withstand 7.62 mm bullets. No foreign helicopter has such protection. “Apaches” penetrate and are shot down with a 12.7 mm DShK machine gun (tested in Afghanistan, March 2002, Operation Anaconda). “Of the 7 AN-64A involved, 4 were damaged, one made an emergency landing, flying only 1.5 km from the battle site. They counted 13 holes in it from the DShK, and the armored glass of the cockpit canopy was broken.” The same applies to the Apache Longbow: in Iraq they were shot down by the KPV (14.5 mm) and Strela-3 machine guns, while even the old Mi-24 “crocodiles” in Chechnya withstood ZU-23-2 fire, direct hits from ATGMs, RPG grenades, Stingers and Eagles.

By the way, despite the heavy armor, the Mi spins no worse than the Apache. The fact is that the maneuverability of rotorcraft is greatly influenced by the size of the separation of the main rotor hinges: the larger it is, the higher the maneuverability. So, the joint spacing of the Apache is 4%, and the Mi is 6%; its five-blade main rotor is more efficient than the Indian's four-blade, especially at low speeds; he successfully performs complex aerobatics (Nesterov loop, barrel roll, Immelmann), which is important for anti-missile maneuvers in combat; due to the special design of the propellers and the noise absorption system, its flight is almost silent; Its vibration level is also lower, which is important when aiming.

MI-28N

The Mi-28A in terms of sighting and flight equipment was significantly worse than its competitor with the TADS/PNVS system, which allows the effective use of weapons and safe piloting of the vehicle around the clock at any altitude, containing an optical aiming system, an infrared night vision system, a television system for low light conditions, laser range finder pointer. The Apaches were renowned for their efficient equipment. True, during their first mass use at night during Desert Storm, at least 5 vehicles with night vision systems were lost (they crashed into dunes or collided in the air); obviously, the system did not provide the crews with complete safety. These machines were the predecessors of the current Apache Longbow, which can rightfully be called a night helicopter with a modern weapons control system; its trump card is the Longbow mm-range radar with increased resolution, which, in addition to night hunting, allows it to perform reconnaissance missions like AWACS aircraft.

We had no trace of all this; but the time was not wasted... For clarity: imagine a warrior quietly but quickly running in complete darkness over rough terrain and offhand hitting the appearing opponents one after another. This is the Mi-28N “Night Hunter” with a completely new Russian avionics system. Now this is the only helicopter in the world capable of flying both manually and automatically at an altitude of 5 meters, bending around the terrain day and night, in difficult weather conditions, with constant search, identification, destruction of ground and air targets, and issuing target designation to other combat participants. The installed multifunctional radar "Crossbow" warns of obstacles: free-standing trees and power lines; she sees a separate person at night 500 m away; The terrain is several tens of kilometers long. For the same purpose - night vision goggles and a flight thermal imaging station, providing an “infrared window into the night” ahead along the course or in the direction of the pilot’s head turn. The radar makes it possible to search for targets, working together with the Rotor optical sighting system. For clarity: the “Hunter”, quietly purring, hangs behind the trees, exposing only its “top of the head” - the radar ball - from ambush. Having identified the targets, distributing them among the helicopters participating in the attack, choosing an object to attack, he energetically “jumps” up and “treats” the target with means of destruction.

The vehicle has a high-resolution mapping system and a bank of digital data on the terrain in the combat area. The computer generates a three-dimensional image of the area over which the helicopter is located, which is easily clarified using satellite navigation combined with inertial navigation, which includes an orientation system based on the physical fields of the Earth. All information is provided to the crew on color displays (3 of them in each cabin). Each of the listed means can be used autonomously, but the main mode is the synthesis of cartographic, thermal imaging and radar information with a three-dimensional image of the terrain displayed on the screen in a form convenient for the pilot. Accuracy characteristics of the equipment should, according to calculations, ensure conditions for safe piloting at extremely low altitudes. The search and identification of targets is carried out by the latest OPS with optical, television, thermal imaging and laser surveillance channels. All channels (except optical) provide digital information to the screen and to the automatic target identification system. The aggregate data goes to the navigator-operator, who makes the decision to use the weapon. The equipment provides communication with all participants in the operation; the helicopter itself can receive target designation from external sources. All this allows him to work at heights of 5-15 m in combat formations of troops, carry out assault operations with and without landing, shoot as if from around a corner, without coming into direct contact with the target and without exposing himself to risk. In addition, the Okhotnik radar, unlike the Apache, is capable of solving flight and navigation tasks.

AN-64A Apache

The armament of both helicopters, consisting of a cannon, guided and unguided missiles, is very similar in appearance and is even mounted similarly.

At first glance, the guns are approximately the same: these are movable single-barrel automatic guns of 30 mm caliber, mounted under the “chin” of the helicopter on turrets with approximately the same firing angles, working synchronously with the sight. In fact, the difference between them is colossal.

The Apache is armed with an M230 cannon designed specifically for it; this is a relatively light weapon weighing 54 kg with a rate of fire of 625 rounds/min., effective firing range against ground targets is 3000 m; its disadvantages are poor accuracy/accuracy of fire, relatively low initial speed and insufficient power of projectiles. This is compensated by a large ammunition capacity (it is argued that when shooting from short distances this is more important). It has been reported that the M230 has been adapted for uranium-cored ammunition.

MI-28N

The Mi is equipped with a modified 2A42 tank gun, which has long and successfully fought on Russian infantry/airborne combat vehicles and Mi-24 helicopters. It is twice as heavy as the American one (115 kg). Placing it on an external turret is extremely difficult, because the recoil (much higher than that of a purely aircraft gun) rocks the helicopter, impairing shooting accuracy. However, the designers successfully dealt with the problem, and the shooting accuracy of the “Hunter” is higher than that of the “Indian”. Of course, installing a tank gun on a helicopter is unusual, and there is more than enough slander about this. However, the Milevians, following the same tradition of “You can’t spoil porridge with butter,” consider this decision justified.

Firstly, according to ballistic data, the 2A42 is far ahead of the American gun. Its projectile weight is 0.24 kg, that of the Mi is twice as much - 0.4 kg; one-minute salvo of "Apache" - 147 kg, "Mi" - twice as much - 301 kg; The Mi has a longer firing range - 4000 m; the initial projectile speed of the Apache is 550 m/sec, and that of the Mi is almost twice as high - 980 m/sec, which ensures exceptional accuracy and high armor penetration (the projectile penetrates 15 mm steel armor at a distance of 1500 m).

Secondly, the Apache can only fire in short bursts due to the threat of the gun overheating. The high survivability of the Okhotnik barrel allows, if necessary, to release the entire ammunition load at once without intermediate cooling, and this can play a decisive role in battle.

Thirdly, the 2A42 gun operates reliably in dusty conditions, which was well tested in Afghanistan. It couldn’t have come at a better time on a helicopter, the specificity of which is firing from extremely low altitudes in dusty conditions, autonomous basing on unpaved areas in disabilities maintenance. As the chief designer of the Mi-28, Mark Vladimirovich Weinberg (now, unfortunately, deceased), said, “the machine is designed for private Mamedov.” Please, no offense: what has been said equally applies to “private Pupkin”; we are talking about the harsh reality of a real war, and not about the sweet fantasies of overseas films. So, the Apache cannon does not withstand pollution and rough handling and often jams (which is the case in Iraq). War is a dirty business, and while the Apache flies to work from well-groomed sites, which are possible in small wars, when they “kill” an obviously weaker enemy, CNN shows in its propaganda how well everything works out.

The disadvantage of the “Hunter” is the smaller ammunition capacity (380 shells versus 1200 for the “Apache”). But, given the higher efficiency of its gun (3-4 times), it requires less shells to destroy a target: the gun has a variable rate of fire (900 rounds/min for air targets and 300 for ground targets); thanks to selective ammunition supply from two cartridge boxes, you can choose the type of projectile (armor-piercing or high-explosive fragmentation) directly during the battle, depending on the type of target and, therefore, use ammunition more economically. The effectiveness of hitting targets increases by 30%, the smaller supply of shells is fully compensated by their rational use. In addition, ammunition supply from cartridge boxes mounted on the gun (short supply path for projectiles) significantly increases reliability.

The 2A42 is probably now the most powerful helicopter gun in the world, reliably hitting light and medium armored targets at a distance of up to 4 km. But an improved 30 mm gun is already being developed for the Mi-28N.

AN-64A Apache

So, judge for yourself how the hypothetical duel of both helicopters with guns will end. In the figurative expression of one of the Russian aircraft gunsmiths, “our gun is a heavy machine gun, and their gun is a double-barreled gun.”

Both helicopters carry other weapons on 4 external nodes; their main caliber is 16 ATGMs (anti-tank guided missiles).

Mi has a supersonic high-precision Ataka-V missile with radio command guidance with increased noise immunity, which has a number of advantages over laser guidance - it works in smoke, dust, and heavy fog; range - up to 8 km; The missile also hits air targets. It is possible to install the Whirlwind ATGM with laser guidance. A new Ataka-D ATGM has been developed for the Okhotnik with a range increased to 10 km: the new equipment of the vehicle ensures the search for point targets at such a distance. The armor penetration of these missiles is approximately the same - up to 1000 mm behind dynamic protection from any angle.

The main caliber of the Apache is the Hellfire AGM-114A laser-guided missile for daytime operation, however, its use is problematic when the atmosphere is polluted. The radar-guided AGM-114B missile has become possible (thanks to the new radar) to be used at night and in all weather conditions. The crew, having taken both types of missiles on board, can choose the optimal one during the battle. In addition to the AGM-114 missiles, the Apache can be armed with a Hellfire-II missile (being developed for the promising Comanche helicopter) with an active guidance system and use according to the fire-and-forget principle, which gives the vehicle the ability to immediately go behind cover after launch . All ATGMs of the Hellfire family are good missiles, capable of hitting armored targets from a distance of 6-7 km (armor penetration up to 1000 mm), effective when firing at moving small targets, fortifications, and so on. But they have one significant drawback - subsonic speed. This greatly increases the attack time, especially at long distances, increasing the vulnerability of the helicopter. Thus, the rocket flies a distance of 4 km in 15 seconds, while the Russian “Vikhr” requires only 9 seconds.

Both helicopters can carry unguided missiles:

- “Apache” - 70 mm caliber, standard for all attack helicopters of the US Air Force, in one flight it can take 4 blocks of 76 pieces;

- “Mi” - caliber 57 mm (128 pcs.), 80 mm (80 pcs.) and 122 mm (20 pcs.), as well as 2 aircraft guns (23 mm) in containers with ammunition of 250 shells. Thanks to the latest helicopter electronics, its firepower can be increased.

To combat air targets, the Apache is armed with the famous Stinger (“fire and forget”), as well as the Sidewinder air-to-air missile (range up to 20 km); "Night Hunter" - supersonic missile "Igla" ("fire and forget"), as well as the R-73 air-to-air missile (range up to 30 km), effectively hitting air targets maneuvering with an overload of up to 12 g in the range speeds from 0 (helicopter hovering) to 2500 km/h, and air-to-surface missiles. "Mi" can carry anti-radar missiles of the Kh-25L type with guidance both using its own radar and through external target designation to achieve a greater launch range. Most likely, Apache can also use missiles of the same type.

"Hunter" can lay minefields from hanging containers. By the way, in addition to its weapons, it can carry the entire range of Mi-24 outboard weapons, which increases the efficiency of their joint use.

The Apache is hopelessly inferior to the Okhotnik in terms of flight characteristics, combat survivability and weapon effectiveness. It has an undeniable advantage in one thing: it is mass-produced and has been actually fighting for a long time, this is how hidden shortcomings are revealed, equipment and weapons are practically tested. In addition, the Mi-28N was made with an eye on the “Indian”, which gave the designers some advantage. On the other hand, one must take into account how much money the Yankees invested in the defeat of the Russian defense industry. The idea of ​​the “Hunter” still could not be “crushed”, and now it is being implemented on a completely new basis, the machine flies in spite of all those “unwilling”. Russia has a 24-hour all-weather combat helicopter, an integral part of the air force of any country in the 21st century, and it’s better not to mess with it.

DOWNLOAD - photos of MI-28 and Apache helicopters (1.7 Mb)

Comparing modern military equipment is a thankless task. All other things being equal, in a real battle, much is decided by chance and not so much by the characteristics inherent in it, but by its skillful use. But we’ll try anyway, because everyone is so interested in who is cooler, our Mi-28N and Ka-52 or “their” Apache?

It is clear that comparison of the most modern combat helicopters in the world is a topic that has given rise to a great many “holy wars” on Internet forums. So we will try to summarize only the most important points.

Video: Ka-50

The first thing worth considering is the schematic diagram of the rotors. The Mi-28N and AN-64 Apache are built on a classic basis, with one main rotor and one tail rotor. In contrast, the Ka-52 is based on an extremely rare and technically complex coaxial design, with two propellers that simultaneously perform both flight and taxiing functions. This scheme provides a gain in power, increasing the available flight ceiling by 100-200 m, which can be extremely useful in mountainous areas. And the absence of a tail rotor has a good effect on the reliability of operation on mountain slopes.

In addition, the helicopter becomes more compact in length. But his profile increases in height, so the gain turns out to be rather dubious. Flight control is slightly improved, which makes it possible for the Ka-52 to make the famous “Funnel” figure - rotating around the aiming point and continuously pouring fire on it. However, all this is not so significant as to speak of serious advantages of the coaxial design over the classic single-rotor design.

The difference is much greater elsewhere. The fact is that the main enemy of helicopters is armored vehicles, but any modern tank has air defense systems that are effective at distances of up to 6 km. A helicopter in this area has only a few seconds to detect and recognize a target and shoot at it. In that amount of time you can only fire a cannon; a rocket requires more.

The Americans solved this problem by using combinations of 1 reconnaissance and target designation helicopter along with several attack vehicles. A light reconnaissance aircraft literally sneaks close to the enemy, and it is much more difficult to detect and hit it than the AN-64 Apache attack tanks that remain outside the air defense range of the tank. He transmits a signal - and only after that the Apaches strike.

The immediate predecessor of the Ka-52, the “Black Shark” Ka-50, was also designed for this type of action. This made it possible to make it both lighter and more maneuverable, getting rid of one crew member and focusing on the means of exchanging information between helicopters in the group. However, Soviet (and now Russian) industry still cannot produce a light reconnaissance vehicle suitable for such purposes. The Ka-50 (and with them the descendants of the Ka-52) were quickly transferred to a different style of combat, using the Vikhr missile system, capable of operating from a distance of up to 10 km. However, with the Vikhr, at night this effective distance is reduced to the same fatal 6 km, and the laser missile guidance system is not very reliable.

Video: Mi-28N

The Mi-28N was initially a simpler and cheaper option. The two-cabin layout made it possible to accommodate both the pilot and the gunner operator, who takes care of all the shooting. And the Ataka complex installed on this helicopter operates at distances of up to 6-8 km, using a more reliable radio command guidance method (the Americans also upgraded their AN-64 Apache for missiles with the Hellfire AGM-114B radio command guidance system).

Important element of both Russian helicopters - the Arbalet airborne radar, which performs reconnaissance and target designation tasks, for which the American approach allocates a whole separate helicopter (Bell OH-58D Kiowa). This seemingly insignificant detail makes the Ka-52 and Mi-28N weapons of a completely new level - all-weather. The radar provides detection and recognition of targets, route mapping, target designation of missiles, and supports low-altitude flight. On the Mi-28N and Ka-52, the radar is installed above the propeller hub - just like the all-weather version of the AN-64 Apache, the notorious Longbow.

But the American radar is not capable of solving aerobatics and navigation problems, but the Crossbow can. The Mi-28N is considered the only helicopter in the world capable of such a trick: even at night and in bad weather conditions, switching to automatic mode, fly around the terrain at an altitude of 5 m at night, while searching, identifying and destroying targets, while simultaneously conducting target designation for other participants in the battle. Impressive.

But still, the most alarming advantage of the Americans is in electronics. According to some data, among the 13 thousand electronic components that are installed on the Mi-28N, more than 70% were developed 15 or more years ago. The Apache's modern avionics make it possible to work with targets faster and more efficiently, and even rank them by importance, which reduces the time the helicopter needs to spend within range of enemy air defense systems. (Such “smart” missile control systems are also used in Russia - for example, in the Granit anti-ship missiles, which can be read about in the article “Peter Morskoy”). The electronics itself will distinguish a conventional vehicle from an anti-aircraft gun and will select the desired target.

Mi-28N vs AN-64 Apache

Otherwise, the Apache is very similar to the Mi-28N. But rather, on the contrary, since the Mi-28N was created on the basis of one of the most successful Soviet helicopters, the Mi-8, and with an eye on American competitors. Both have fixed landing gear and a tail gear. Both carry a pair of engines located in nacelles on the sides of the fuselage. Both have a crew positioned in tandem - one slightly behind and above the other. The Ka-52, by the way, has two crew members sitting side by side, which is considered a disadvantage, reducing visibility and increasing the frontal projection of the vehicle.

Compared to the AN-64 Apache, the Mi-28N is almost 3 tons heavier, but its engines are also more powerful, which even gives it an advantage in maximum combat load and flight characteristics. In addition, the visibility from the Mi-28N cockpit is better, but the AN-64 Apache is equipped with convex windows that do not create glare that could interfere with the operation of instruments. Even outwardly, these helicopters are easy to confuse.

If we compare cannon armament, then the Mi-28N will most likely have an advantage, although it is not too significant. Both it and the Apache are armed with movable automatic single-barrel 30mm guns. The American M230 cannon weighing 54 kg provides a rate of fire of 625 rounds per minute, with an effective firing range of 3 km. It is believed that this gun is not very accurate and has insufficient power.

The Mi-28N is equipped with a modified 2A42 tank gun, old and proven. It is noticeably heavier than the American one and has serious recoil. However, the helicopter designers coped with the last problem, achieving accuracy even higher than that of the American competitor. But, having solved a number of difficulties, they received the most powerful helicopter gun in the world: the weight of the projectile and the initial speed are almost twice that of the M230, the firing range is 4 km, and the rate of fire is up to 900 rounds per minute. A projectile fired from the Mi-28N penetrates 15 mm armor from a 1.5 km distance.

In addition, the 2A42 cannon is extremely reliable and practically does not overheat: unlike the AN-64 Apache, the Mi-28N is capable of fully firing its entire ammunition load without any cooling breaks. Finally, the shooter himself chooses the type of projectile - armor-piercing or high-explosive fragmentation.

There are also differences in rockets. The main “tool” of both helicopters is anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs), each carrying 16 of them, suspended on external nodes. For the Mi-28N, they created a supersonic high-precision missile “Ataka-V” with radio command guidance, which we have already mentioned. Such missiles operate in conditions of smoke and dust, which scatters laser beams, interfering with “conventional” laser-guided missiles. A a new version The Ataka-D missile has a range of up to 10 km.

Essential Tool AN-64 Apache – Hellfire AGM-114A laser-guided and AGM-114B radar-guided missiles. The helicopter can accept both types of missiles, and the crew has the opportunity to choose the appropriate option right during the battle. Their range is 6-7 km, but, unlike Russian missiles, Hellfires are subsonic. It takes missiles 15 seconds to reach a target 4 km away, while Russian ones need 1.5 times less time.

But in general, all this is more reminiscent of games from the “find ten differences” series: all three cars have approximately the same characteristics and belong to the same generation. So, it is apparently impossible to make an unambiguous conclusion about “who is cooler”. As stated at the beginning of this note, everything is decided by skillful application and, of course, fate.

The other day, unpleasant news came from India. The tender for the purchase of attack helicopters was won not by the Russian, but by the American Boeing AH-64D Apache Longbow. The “long-suffering” competition, despite some unfavorable forecasts regarding its outcome, nevertheless ended, even if not in favor of Russian helicopter manufacturers.

Let us recall that New Delhi first announced its desire to buy 22 attack helicopters back in 2008. Russia then presented the Ka-50, and European companies EADS and Augusta Westland acted as competitors. A little later, the Americans from Bell and Boeing joined the competition. In general, the result of the competition was hardly predictable. However, it all ended in a way that no one could have expected: less than a year after the start, the Indians canceled the tender. True, a few months later it was continued, but with a new line-up of participants.

The Mi-28N took part in the updated competition from Russia, and the United States presented its Apache Longbow. After comparing the documentation and the presented helicopters, the Indian military took a specific position. On the one hand, they were satisfied with the Russian Mi-28N. On the other hand, it was clear from the statements and actions of potential customers that they were unlikely to buy this helicopter. The reluctance of Indians to buy weapons and military equipment from only one country is sometimes cited as an explanation for these “double standards.”

This is understandable: India is currently the world's largest arms buyer. Naturally, New Delhi does not want to order weapons only from Russia and face a number of specific problems related to spare parts, etc. In the end, as already mentioned, the American project was chosen as the winner. In the coming years, Boeing will receive about one and a half billion dollars and will send more than two dozen new attack helicopters to India.

The outcome of the Indian tender looks sad for the Russian public. Naturally, the expected gossip and comparisons of our Mi-28N with the American Apache immediately began. As a matter of fact, these discussions have been going on for several years now, and now their next “round” has simply begun. Let's try to compare these machines, which are rightfully the embodiment of the most advanced technologies in the helicopter industry of the two countries.

Technical specifications

First of all, it is necessary to touch upon the application concept in accordance with which the Mi-28N and AH-64 were created. The American helicopter was designed to become a carrier of high-precision weapons designed to attack enemy equipment and objects. In the future, it was planned to equip it with equipment for all-weather operation and new weapons. All this most directly influenced the appearance of the finished car.

The Russian helicopter, in turn, continued the concept of an attack aircraft, a direct support helicopter for troops. However, unlike the previous attack helicopter, the Mi-28N helicopter was not supposed to transport soldiers. Nevertheless, Soviet project implied the installation of a wide range of weapons designed both to combat enemy personnel and to destroy armored vehicles.

The main work on both projects began at approximately the same time, but a number of technical problems, and then economic difficulties, “staggered” the start of mass production of helicopters by more than twenty years. Since the start of production, several modifications of both helicopters have been created. Of these, only the AH-64D Apache Longbow and Mi-28N went into large production.

Helicopter AH-64D Apache, 101st Aviation Regiment of the US Army in Iraq.

Let's start comparing helicopters with their weight and size parameters. An empty Mi-28N is almost one and a half times heavier than the “American” - 7900 kg versus 5350 kg. A similar situation is observed with the normal take-off weight, which for the Apache is 7530 kg, and for the Mi-28N it is 10900 kg. The maximum take-off weight of both helicopters is approximately a ton more than normal.

And yet, a much more important parameter for a combat vehicle is the mass of the payload. The Mi-28N carries almost twice as much weight on slings as the Apache - 1600 kg. The only downside to a larger payload is the need for a more powerful engine. Thus, the Mi-28N is equipped with two TV3-117VMA turboshaft engines with a take-off power of 2200 hp. Apache engines - two General Electric T-700GE-701C 1890 hp each. on takeoff mode. Thus, American helicopter has a high power density– about 500 hp per ton of normal take-off weight than the Mi-28N - about 400-405 hp. per ton of take-off weight.

In addition, the load on the propeller needs to be considered. With a rotor diameter of 14.6 meters, the AH-64D has a swept disk of 168 square meters. meters. The larger Mi-28N propeller with a diameter of 17.2 meters gives this helicopter a disk area of ​​232 sq.m. Thus, the load on the swept disk for the Apache Longbow and Mi-28N at normal take-off weight is 44 and 46 kilograms per square meter, respectively.

At the same time, despite the lower load on the propeller, in terms of speed, the Apache Longbow beats the Mi-28N only in terms of the maximum permissible speed. In an emergency, an American helicopter can accelerate to 365 km/h. The Russian helicopter is several tens of kilometers per hour behind in this parameter. The cruising speed of both rotorcraft is approximately the same - 265-270 km/h. As for the flight range, the Mi-28N is in the lead here. When its own tanks are fully refueled, it is capable of flying up to 450 km, which is 45-50 km more than the AH-64D. The static and dynamic ceilings of the machines in question are approximately equal.

Mi-28N board No. 37 yellow at the MAKS-2007 exhibition, Ramenskoye, 08/26/2007.

Barrel and unguided weapons

It should be noted that weight and flight data are actually a means of ensuring the delivery of weapons to the place of their use. It is in the composition of the weapons and related equipment that the most serious differences between the Apache Longbow and the Mi-28N lie. In general, the set of weapons is relatively similar: helicopters carry an automatic cannon, unguided and guided weapons; The composition of the ammunition may vary depending on need.

The guns remain a constant part of the weapons of both helicopters. In the nose of the Mi-28N helicopter there is a movable NPPU-28 cannon mount with a 2A42 30 mm caliber gun. The automatic cannon of the Russian helicopter, among other things, is interesting because it is borrowed from the weapons complex of the BMP-2 and BMD-2 ground combat vehicles. Thanks to this origin, the 2A42 can destroy enemy personnel and lightly armored vehicles at distances of at least 2-3 km. The maximum effective fire range is 4 km.

On the American AH-64D helicopter, in turn, a 30-mm M230 Chain Gun is mounted in a mobile installation. With the same caliber as the 2A42, the American gun differs from it in its characteristics. Thus, the “Chain Gun” has a higher rate of fire - about 620 rds/min. versus 500 for 2A42. At the same time, the M230 uses a 30x113 mm projectile, and the 2A42 uses a 30x165 mm projectile. Due to the smaller amount of gunpowder in the shells and the shorter barrel, the Chain Gun has a shorter effective fire range: about 1.5-2 km.

In addition, it should be taken into account that the 2A42 is an automatic cannon with a gas exhaust system, and the M230, as its name implies, is designed as an automatic cannon with an external drive. Thus, “Chain Gun” requires an external power supply for the automation to operate. As practice shows, such a system is viable and effective, however, in some countries it is believed that an aircraft gun should be “self-sufficient” and not require any external energy sources. The barrel armament of the Mi-28N helicopter is a product of this very concept. The only parameter in which the Apache Longbow cannon is superior to the NPPU-28 is its ammunition load.. An American helicopter carries up to 1,200 shells, a Russian one – four times less.

The remaining weapons of both helicopters are mounted on four pylons under the wing. Universal holders allow you to hang a wide range of weapons. It is worth noting that of the helicopters under consideration, only the Mi-28N has the ability to use bombs. The fact is that the guided bombs available in NATO countries are too heavy weight so that the AH-64D can take enough of them. At the same time, the Mi-28N's payload of 1600 kg does not allow it to hang more than three 500 kg bombs, which is clearly insufficient for most tasks.

It is worth noting that even at the development stage of the Apache project, American engineers and the military abandoned the idea of ​​a helicopter bomber. The possibility of carrying and using guided bombs was considered, but the relatively small payload of the helicopter ultimately did not allow this idea to be fully realized. For this reason, both the AH-64D and the Mi-28N mainly “use” missile weapons.

A characteristic difference between helicopters is the range of unguided missiles used. The American Apache Longbow carries only Hydra 70 missiles of 70 mm caliber. Depending on the need, launch units with a capacity of up to 19 unguided missiles (M261 or LAU-61/A) can be installed on the helicopter pylons. Thus, the maximum supply is 76 missiles. At the same time, the instructions for operating a helicopter advise taking no more than two blocks with NAR - these recommendations are determined by the maximum payload.

The Mi-28N was originally designed as a battlefield helicopter, which influenced the range of unguided weapons. In one weapon configuration or another, a Russian helicopter can carry a wide range of unguided aircraft missiles in large quantities. For example, when installing blocks for S-8 missiles, the maximum ammunition capacity is 80 rockets. In the case of using heavier S-13s, the ammunition load is four times less. In addition, the Mi-28N, if necessary, can carry containers with machine guns or cannons, as well as unguided bombs and incendiary tanks of the appropriate caliber.

Mi-28N board No. 08 blue at the air base in Budennovsk, 2010. The helicopter is equipped with a full set of on-board defense systems - containers with IR traps, SPO sensors, etc..

Guided weapons

This superiority in terms of unguided weapons is due to the original concept of using helicopters. “Apache”, and then “Apache Longbow”, was created as a hunter of enemy armored vehicles, which influenced its entire appearance and its weapons in the first place.

In the early stages of development, the intended use of the future attack helicopter was seen as follows. The helicopter formation is located on the expected path of the enemy mechanized column and is waiting for a reconnaissance signal or independently searching for targets. When enemy tanks or other armored vehicles approach, helicopters, hiding behind folds of terrain, “jump out” to the launch point and launch an attack with anti-tank missiles. First of all, it was necessary to knock out anti-aircraft self-propelled guns, after which other equipment could be destroyed.

Initially, BGM-71 TOW guided missiles were considered as the main weapon for the AH-64. However, their relatively short range - no more than 4 km - could lead to sad consequences for the pilots. In the mid-seventies, the USSR and its allies already had military air defense systems capable of fighting targets at such distances. Therefore, the attacking helicopter, while aiming a TOW missile, risked being shot down.

As a result, we had to look for a new weapon, which was the AGM-114 Hellfire missile. Early modifications of this missile used semi-active radar guidance, but then, for various reasons, experiments began with other types of homing. As a result, the AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire missile, designed specifically for the AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopter, was adopted into service in 1998. It differs from previous modifications primarily in its homing equipment. For the first time in the Hellfire family, an original combination of inertial and radar guidance was used.

Immediately before launch, the helicopter’s onboard equipment transmits data to the missile regarding the target: direction and distance to it, as well as the movement parameters of the helicopter and the enemy vehicle. To do this, the helicopter is forced to “jump” for a few seconds from behind natural cover. At the end of the “jump” the rocket is launched. Hellfire Longbow independently enters the approximate target area using an inertial guidance system, after which it turns on the active radar, which locks on the target and final guidance to it. This method of guidance actually makes it possible to limit the launch range only by the characteristics of the rocket’s jet engine.

Currently, Hellfires fly at a range of about 8-10 km. A characteristic feature of the updated Hellfire missile is that there is no need for constant target illumination by a helicopter or ground units. At the same time, the AGM-114L is significantly more expensive than previous modifications of this missile, but the difference in the cost of ammunition is more than compensated by the destruction of an enemy armored vehicle.

The Mi-28N helicopter, in turn, was created as a vehicle for air support, including the destruction of armored targets. For this reason, its weapons are more universal than specialized. To combat enemy armored vehicles, the Mi-28N can be equipped with Sturm guided missiles or the newer Ataka-V type. The helicopter's pylons carry up to 16 missiles of one model or another.

Russian anti-tank missiles use a different guidance system than American ones. "Sturm" and its deep modernization "Ataka-V" use radio command guidance. This technical solution has both pros and cons. The positive features of the used command system relate to the simplicity and low cost of the rocket. In addition, the absence of the need for heavy equipment for independent guidance makes it possible to make either more compact missiles or equip them with a more powerful warhead.

As a result, the base missile of the Ataka complex, model 9M120, delivers a tandem cumulative combat unit with penetration of at least 800 mm of homogeneous armor at a distance of up to 6 km. There is information about the existence of new modifications of the missile that have better armor penetration and range. However, these qualities come at a price. Radio command guidance requires the installation of relatively complex equipment on a helicopter to acquire and track a target, as well as to generate and send commands to the missile.

Thus, to track and guide a missile, a helicopter does not have the ability to use anti-tank weapons in a “jumping” manner. Radio command guidance requires a relatively long stay in the enemy's visibility zone, which exposes the helicopter to the danger of a retaliatory attack. For this purpose, the onboard equipment of the Mi-28N helicopter has the ability to change the direction of the control radiation. The rotating unit of the transmitting antenna and missile tracking equipment allows the helicopter to yaw maneuver within 110° of the launch direction and roll up to 30° from the horizontal.

Of course, such capabilities in certain circumstances may turn out to be insufficient, which, however, is compensated by the missile’s sufficient range and high speed. In other words, with a successful combination of circumstances, the anti-tank missile of the Ataka-V complex will be able to destroy the enemy anti-aircraft installation before it has time to retaliate by launching the missile. At the same time, do not forget about trends recent years, implying a complete transition to the “fire and forget” concept.

For self-defense, both helicopters can carry guided air-to-air missiles. The Mi-28N is equipped with four missiles for this purpose short range R-60 with infrared homing head; AH-64D - AIM-92 Stinger or AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles with similar guidance systems.

Crew and protection systems

When creating the Mi-28 and AH-64 helicopters, customers expressed a desire to receive combat vehicles with a crew of two people. This requirement was driven by the desire to make the work of helicopter pilots easier. Thus, the crew of both rotorcraft consists of two people - a pilot and a navigator-operator. Another feature that helicopters have in common concerns the positioning of the pilots. Designers from Mil and McDonnell Douglas (which developed the Apache before it was purchased by Boeing) together with the military came to a conclusion regarding the optimal placement of crew jobs.

The tandem arrangement of the two cabins made it possible to reduce the width of the fuselage, improve visibility from the workplace, and also provide both pilots with a full set of equipment necessary for piloting and/or using weapons. It is noteworthy that the helicopters in question are united not only by the idea of ​​​​accommodating the crew. On both helicopters, the pilot's cabin is located behind and above the weapons operator's cabin.

The composition of the cabin equipment is also approximately similar. Thus, the pilot of a Mi-28N or AH-64D helicopter has at his disposal the entire set of flight instruments, as well as some means for using weapons, primarily unguided missiles. Navigator-operators, in turn, also have the ability to control the flight, but their workplaces are seriously equipped for the use of all types of weapons.

Separately, it is worth dwelling on security systems. Being at a short distance from the enemy, the battlefield helicopter runs the risk of coming under enemy anti-aircraft artillery fire or becoming a target for guided missiles. As a result, some protection is required. The main armor element of the Mi-28N is a metal “bathtub” made of 10 mm aluminum armor. Ceramic tiles 16 mm thick are installed on top of the aluminum structure. Polyurethane sheets are laid between a layer of metal and ceramics. This composite armor can withstand fire from 20-mm cannons from NATO countries.

The design of the doors to reduce weight is a “sandwich” of two aluminum plates and a polyurethane block. The cabin glazing is made of silicate blocks with a thickness of 22 mm (side windows) and 44 mm (windows). Cabin windshields can withstand hits from a 12.7 mm bullet, and the side windows protect against rifle-caliber weapons. Some vital components of the structure also have armor.

In case the armor did not save the helicopter from critical damage, there are two ways to save the crew. At altitudes over 100 meters above the surface the main rotor blades, the doors of both cabins and the wings are shot off, after which special balloons are inflated to protect pilots from hitting structural elements. Next, the pilots independently leave the helicopter with a parachute.

In case of an accident at lower altitudes, where there is no way to escape with a parachute, the Mi-28N has another set of measures to rescue the crew. In case of an accident at an altitude of less than 100 meters, the automatic system tightens the pilots' seat belts and fixes them in the correct position. After this, the helicopter descends at an acceptable speed in autorotation mode. When landing, the helicopter landing gear and specially designed Pamir pilot seats, developed at the Zvezda Research and Production Enterprise, take on most of the overload that occurs when touching. An overload of about 50-60 units when structural elements are destroyed is extinguished to 15-17.

The armor protection of the AH-64D helicopter is generally similar to that of the Mi-28N, with the difference that the American helicopter is lighter and smaller than the Russian one. As a result, the Apache Longbow's cockpit only protects pilots from 12.7mm bullets. In case of more serious damage, there is an armored partition between the cabins that protects against fragments of shells of up to 23 mm caliber.

The overload damping system is generally similar to the set of measures taken on the Russian helicopter. The effectiveness of its work can be judged by several well-known facts. Thus, at the beginning of this year, a video from Afghanistan circulated on the Internet, where American pilots on an Apache performed aerobatics in thin mountain air. The pilot did not take into account some atmospheric parameters, which is why the helicopter literally walked on the ground. It later turned out that the crew escaped with a slight fright and a couple of abrasions, and the helicopter, after a short repair, returned to service.

Mi-28N helicopter board No. 50 yellow from a batch of helicopters transferred to the Air Force at the air base 344 TsBPiPLS AA October 8, 2011, Torzhok, Tver region.

Electronic equipment

One of the most important elements of the Mi-28N and AH-64D Apache Longbow projects is electronic equipment. The improvement in the characteristics of military air defense systems led to the addition of one more point to the attack helicopter concept: new vehicles were supposed to be able to quickly detect and identify targets at relatively long ranges. To do this, it was necessary to equip the helicopter with a radar station and new computer systems. The Americans were the first to carry out such modernization by installing the Lockheed Martin/Northrop Grumman AN/APG-78 Longbow radar on the AH-64D.

The most visible part of this station is its antenna, located in the radome above the propeller hub. The remaining equipment of the Longbow radar is mounted in the fuselage. The radar can operate in three modes: against ground targets, against air targets, and to track terrain. In the first case, the station “scans” a 45° wide sector to the right and left of the flight direction and detects targets at distances of up to 10-12 km. At these distances, the station can track up to 256 targets and simultaneously determine their type.

Based on the characteristic nuances of the reflected radio signal, the AN/APG-78 station automatically determines which object it comes from. The radar memory contains signatures of tanks, anti-aircraft self-propelled guns, helicopters and airplanes. Thanks to this, the weapons operator has the opportunity to determine priority targets in advance and pre-configure the AGM-114L missile, transferring the parameters of the selected target to it.

In case it is impossible to accurately determine the danger of an object, a radio frequency interferometer antenna is mounted in the lower part of the Longbow radar radome. This device receives signals emitted by other combat vehicles and determines the direction to their source. Thus, by comparing data from the radar and interferometer, the weapon operator can accurately locate the most dangerous enemy armored vehicle. After detecting and entering the target parameters, the pilot makes a “jump”, and the navigator launches the rocket.

The operating mode of the AN/APG-78 radar for air targets implies a circular view of the surrounding space with the identification of three types of targets: aircraft, as well as moving and hovering helicopters. As for the terrain tracking mode, in this case the Longbow provides low-altitude flight, including in difficult weather conditions. Interesting display of surface information: so that the pilot is not distracted by a lot of symbols, only those obstacles whose height is approximately equal to or higher than the helicopter’s flight altitude are displayed on the radar screen. Thanks to this, the pilot does not waste time identifying those objects and landscape elements that can simply be ignored due to their safety.

It is worth noting that in addition to the new AN/APG-78 radar, the Apache Longbow avionics includes other, more familiar systems. The integrated weapons control system, if necessary, allows you to use TADS, PNVS, etc. equipment.

In addition, the AH-64D helicopters use a new “friend or foe” identification system, which, among other things, automatically blocks attempts to attack an object identified as friendly. This feature was added due to repeated cases of attacks on own and allied troops due to reconnaissance and target designation. According to various estimates, the combat effectiveness of the AH-64D helicopter equipped with the Longbow radar is up to 4 times higher than that of the base vehicle. At the same time, the survival rate increased almost 7 times.

The basis of the avionics equipment of the Mi-28N helicopter and its main “zest” is Radar "Crossbow". As with the AN/APG-78 Longbow, the antenna of this station is located inside the radome on the main rotor hub. At the same time, there are differences. First of all, they relate to methods of application. Unlike the Longbow, the Crossbow has only two modes of operation: on the ground and in the air. The pride of the station’s developers from the NIIR “Phazotron” is its characteristics when working on the ground.

The Crossbow station has a larger viewing sector of the underlying surface compared to AN/APG-78; its width is 120 degrees. The maximum “visibility” range of the radar is 32 km. At the same distance, the automatic radar station is capable of drawing up a rough map of the area. As for target detection and identification, these parameters of the “Crossbow” are approximately equal to the corresponding characteristics of the AN/APG-78. Large objects like bridges are “visible” from a distance of about 25 km. Tanks and similar armored vehicles - from half the distances.

The air-to-surface radar operating mode provides low-altitude aerobatics in any weather conditions and at any time of the day. To do this, the “Crossbow” has the ability to detect small objects, such as trees or power poles. Moreover, at a distance of about 400 meters, the Mi-28N radar is capable of recognizing even individual power line wires. Another interesting feature of the mapping system is its function of creating a three-dimensional image. If necessary, the crew can use radar to “photograph” the area in front of the helicopter and carefully study it using the example of a 3D model displayed on the screen.

Mi-28N serial No. 07-01 board No. 26 blue in Rostov on Russian Air Fleet Day, 08/19/2012.

When the Crossbow is switched to air-to-air mode, the antenna begins a circular rotation, scanning the entire surrounding space in azimuth. The viewing sector in the vertical plane has a width of 60°. The detection range of aircraft-type targets is within 14-16 km. Anti-aircraft and aircraft missiles are “visible” from a distance of about 5-6 km. In the “over the air” mode, the Arbalet radar can track up to 20 targets and transmit data about them to other helicopters.

A caveat should be made: information about air targets, both on the Mi-28N and on the AH-64D, is used only to analyze possible risks and transfer data to other combat vehicles. R-60 or AIM-92 air-to-air missiles, intended for self-defense, are equipped with infrared homing heads and, as a result, do not require prior data transmission from helicopter systems. In addition to the Arbalet radar station, the Mi-28N has an integrated weapons control system that allows the use of all available types of weapons in various conditions.

Who is better?

Comparing the AH-64D Apache Longbow and Mi-28N helicopters is a rather specific and difficult matter. Of course, both rotorcraft belong to the class of attack helicopters. However, they have equal parts in common and differences. For example, to an ignorant person, both helicopters look quite similar. But upon closer examination, the difference in size, armament, etc. is striking. Finally, when studying the history of the helicopters in question, it turns out that they differ even at the level of concept of application.

In this regard, two quite different helicopters were created. Without going into technical details, the Apache Longbow is a relatively small and light helicopter whose task is to “shoot” enemy tanks from a long distance. In addition, the newest version of the AH-64 helicopter has the ability to conduct operations at any time of the day and in any weather conditions, naturally, when it is possible to take off.

The Mi-28N, in turn, was created as a significant redesign of its “big brother”, which did not receive a cargo compartment, but acquired new weapons. As a result, the Mi-28N turned out to be quite large and heavy, which made it possible to increase both the ammunition capacity and the range of available weapons. At the same time, the Russian helicopter, taking into account current trends in the development of rotorcraft and foreign experience, received its own radar station, which significantly increased its combat potential.

At the same time, despite the new capabilities in target attack range, the Mi-28N retained the ability to “hover” over the enemy’s head and attack from short distances. As for the combat potential of helicopters, it is generally impossible to compare it - of the machines in question, only Apache Longbows took part in real battles.

Thus, the AH-64D Apache Longbow and the Mi-28N are both similar and not. It is not difficult to guess that the main differences relate to weapons and the method of their use. Accordingly, it is precisely these qualities of helicopters that should be the main factor influencing the selection of the winner in competitions for the purchase of equipment. It seems that the Indian military, torn between two wonderful options, nevertheless decided to acquire lighter helicopters, “tailored” to combat enemy armored vehicles.

But Iraq, unlike India, apparently preferred a more versatile attack vehicle in the form of the Mi-28N. Recently, official sources from the administrations of Russia and Iraq confirmed that in the coming years the Arab country will receive three dozen Mi-28N helicopters in export modification and more than 40 anti-aircraft missile and gun systems. The total volume of contracts exceeded $4 billion. As you can see, the AH-64D and Mi-28N helicopters are good. Moreover, each is good in his own way, which, however, does not prevent them from finding new customers.

Based on the results of technical tests, the Indian military decided to purchase American AH-64D Apache helicopters developed by Boeing, rather than Russian Mi-28N Night Hunter attack helicopters.
Information about this was confirmed to Russian agencies by the Indian Ministry of Defense and the Arms Procurement Commission. According to unnamed sources, the reasons for the choice of the Indian side “are not of a political nature.” “The reasons for the refusal of the Mi-28 helicopter were of a technical nature. According to our experts, the Mi -28N does not meet the requirements of the tender on 20 points, unlike the Apache helicopter, which showed better characteristics,” RIA Novosti quotes the words of its interlocutor from the arms procurement commission. In May of this year, it was announced at the Le Bourget air show Russia has signed a contract for the supply of 80 Mi-17 helicopters to India. The Indian Ministry of Defense’s plans for the purchase of helicopter equipment also provide for several more competitions in the future, including for the supply of multi-purpose helicopters for the country’s Navy. According to experts, in the next ten years India will put into service about 700 new helicopters.
Technical and political reasons

The reason for the loss of the Russian Mi-28N combat helicopter in the Indian tender was a whole complex of factors, and the technical condition of the vehicle was not the most important among them, Ruslan Pukhov, director of the Center for Analysis of Strategies and Technologies, told RIA Novosti. According to Pukhov, three blocks played a role in this defeat reasons.
“At the moment, two more helicopter tenders are being held in India: for the purchase of a multi-purpose helicopter, the Russian Ka-226 is participating, and a super-heavy helicopter - here the Russian participant is the Mi-26. Both helicopters have very serious chances of success. And the Indians simply cannot give all three victories to Russia,” he said.
In addition, according to him, the current “fascination” with American weapons also played an important role in the decision of the Indian Ministry of Defense. “Indians are well aware of the strengths of American military equipment, but they are not very aware of the weak ones. And many surprises await them,” the expert noted. At the same time, the director of CAST said that the Mi-28N has not been developed to an ideal state. Currently, two more tenders are being held in India for the supply of helicopters: 12 heavy transport helicopters and 197 light multi-purpose helicopters. Based on the results of these tenders, contracts with a total value of $2.5 billion. In the first competition, the finalists were the Russian Mi-26T2 helicopter and the American Chinook, and in the second, the Ka-226T and Eurocopter AS550. The losing tender, the Mi-28N Night Hunter, is a fire support helicopter that can become the basis of Russian front-line aviation. According to the plan, it should replace the Mi-24 helicopters. The Russian Ministry of Defense previously announced its intention to purchase 300 Night Hunters for the needs of the army.

In order to understand, you need to look at the technical specifications.

The new generation combat helicopter Mi-28N (“Night Hunter”) is designed to search and destroy enemy tanks, armored vehicles, and manpower; destruction of protected objects and destruction of area targets (trench lines, defensive structures, etc.); laying minefields; search and destruction of boats and other small watercraft; combating high-speed and low-flying enemy aircraft; destroying low-speed air targets day and night in simple and adverse weather conditions.

Mi-28N - developed by the Moscow Helicopter Plant named after. M.L. Mil based on the Mi-28 combat helicopter (the base helicopter is sometimes designated Mi-28A).

Before drawing up the technical specifications for the Mi-28N, for several years the plant’s specialists, together with institutes of the Ministry of Defense, shaped the appearance of this helicopter. The helicopter was intended to work with the Ground Forces, so specific features These troops (work at any time of the day, in simple and difficult weather conditions, away from airfields and fixed bases, compatibility of fuels and lubricants, ammunition, communications and control equipment, ease of operation of the equipment used) required corresponding qualities from the Mi-28N.

The first prototype was rolled out of the assembly shop on August 16, 1996, and on November 14, 1996, the helicopter took off for the first time.

On December 24, 2008, the state commission, based on the results of state tests, recommended adopting the Mi 28N combat helicopter into service with the Russian Ministry of Defense and putting it into mass production. The Mi-28N will be produced by the Rostov plant (JSC Rostvertol).

The Mi-28N is a two-seat (pilot and navigator-operator) helicopter with a classic single-rotor design with a five-blade main rotor and an X-shaped tail rotor controlled by a stabilizer, wheeled fixed landing gear with a tail support. The wing is used for mounting weapons and additional fuel tanks.

The helicopter is equipped with a complex of on-board radio-electronic and instrumentation equipment (avionics), which ensures the use of weapons and the solution of flight and navigation tasks day and night in simple and difficult weather conditions at extremely low altitudes with automatic contouring of the terrain and avoiding obstacles.

The avionics also provides control over the operation of the power plant and other systems; voice notification to the crew; radio communications between helicopters and with ground stations; communication between crew members and recording of their conversations.

Design features ensure high survivability of the helicopter. Crew survival during emergency landings with vertical speeds of up to 12 m/sec is ensured by the use of a passive protection system with energy-absorbing structural elements (chassis, seats, fuselage elements).

Performance characteristics of the helicopter:

Crew - 2 people (if necessary, another 2-3 people can be transported in the rear compartment).

Power plant - 2 TV3 117VMA engines with a power of 2200 horsepower each.

Takeoff weight:

normal - 10700 kg
maximum - 12000 kg

Combat load weight - 2300 kg

Flight speed:
maximum - 305 km/h,
cruising - 270 km/h.

Static ceiling - 3600 m.

Dynamic ceiling - 5700 m.

Range of flight:
normal - 450 km
in distillation version - 1100 km

Overall dimensions of the helicopter:

length -7.01 m
height 3.82 m
width 5.89 m

Main rotor diameter - 17.2 m

To perform combat missions on a helicopter, the following weapons are used:

Fixed mobile gun mount NPPU 28N with a 2A42 cannon of 30 mm caliber with 250 rounds of ammunition.

Universal gun containers UPK 23 250 (2 pcs.) with a GSh 23L cannon of 23 mm caliber and an ammunition load of 250 shells in each container.

Anti-tank missile system 9 A2313 "Ataka-V" with guided missiles 9M120, 9M120F, 9A 2200 (up to 16 pcs.).

Guided missiles with thermal homing head "Igla" (up to 8 pcs.).

Unguided rockets type C 8 caliber 80 mm in B8V20 A blocks (up to 4 blocks).

Unguided rockets type C 13 caliber 122 mm in B13L1 blocks (up to 4 blocks).

Unified containers of small-sized cargo KMGU 2 (up to 4 blocks).

AH-64 Apache attack helicopter

In early 1984, the first group of AH-64A Apache helicopters entered service with the US Army. The AH-64A, according to NATO experts, is the most advanced of all combat helicopters in service with the alliance countries. It was created to combat enemy tanks in conditions of high saturation of the battlefield with military air defense systems. The AH-64 Apache can perform its assigned tasks in difficult weather conditions, poor visibility conditions, day and night. According to experts, the AH-64 Apache is the helicopter of the 21st century. It has good maneuverability and high flight speed. Its design is designed for overloads from -1.5 to + 3.5. The engines are equipped with a special device that disperses the jet and reduces the exhaust temperature, which reduces the likelihood of the helicopter being hit by missiles with an infrared guidance head. The main rotor blades are covered with a layered structure made of steel and composite materials. Fundamentally new solutions were used when attaching the blades to the propeller hub. The blade remains operational when hit by 12.7 mm bullets. The landing gear is non-retractable, which significantly increased the payload of the helicopter. The AH-64A has an X-shaped tail rotor, which is much more efficient than a conventional one. The AH-64 Apache is equipped with modern electronic equipment. For the first time, a combat helicopter is equipped with a helmet-mounted target designation system, which allows you to control small arms and missile weapons with head movement.

The AH-64A helicopter has the following weapons: Hellfire anti-tank guided missiles with a laser guidance system, a Hughes H230A-1 Chaingun automatic cannon installed between the main landing gear, containers with unguided aircraft missiles. The use of two independent hydraulic systems, an armored cabin and the most important systems and sections of the airframe, as well as the use of fuel tanks of a special shape and design, allowed the developers to create a vehicle capable of completing a combat mission and returning to base after a helicopter was hit by 23 mm caliber shells. Since 1985, the United States began developing a new helicopter, the AH-64B Apache Bravo, which has a larger wingspan and engines of increased power. The modification includes replacement of electronic equipment. The helicopter kit includes a knife for cutting high-voltage wires. The AH-64A Apache performed well during the Iraq War (1991). Currently, McDonnell-Douglas is producing a new model of the AH-64D helicopter, called the Longbow Apache. The AH-64D is equipped with a more modern weapons control system, which ensures targeted shooting from long distances. The Dutch Air Force and the British Royal Air Force plan to purchase 30 and 67 AH-64D helicopters, respectively.
Modifications of the AH-64 helicopter

AH-64A Apache - the first production modification.

The AH-64B Apache Bravo is an upgraded version of the AH-64A, with a new radar and a new gas turbine engine and the ability to use the AIM-9L Sidewinder air-to-air missile.

The AH-64C Apache is an upgraded version of the AH-64A to the AH-64D standard.

AH-64D Longbow Apache - an improved version of the AH-64 Apache combat helicopter with a Longbow fire control system based on a Westinghouse millimeter wave radar above the main rotor hub, more powerful General Electric T700-GE-701 gas turbine engines (1417 kW or 1930 hp .), improved AGM-114D Longbow Hellfire ATGM, Doppler navigation system and processor. The helicopter is equipped with a system that allows it to receive information from the US Air Force Joint-STARS complex. The AH-64D is equipped with an targeting system based on the Target Acquisition Designation Sight (TADS - AN/ASQ-170) and Pilot Night Vision Sensor (PNVS - AN/AAQ-11). The first helicopter with the Longbow system made its first flight on March 11, 1991, the first launch of the Hellfire ATGM was made in May 1995, deliveries to the US Army began in 1996. The helicopters are also planned to be delivered to the armies of Great Britain and the Netherlands. The English version of the helicopter will be equipped with Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca RTM322 gas turbine engines.

AH-64 Sea Apache - a version of the helicopter for the Marine Corps with the electronic equipment of the F/A-18 aircraft, the APG-65 radar and the ability to use AGM-84 Harpoon and/or AGM-119 Penguin anti-ship missiles and AIM-120 air-to-air missiles AMRAAM or AIM-132 ASRAAM.

Armament of the AH-64 Apache: 1 30 mm M230 Chain Gun with 1200 rounds of ammunition. Combat load - 771 kg on 4 hardpoints: 16 (4x4) AGM-114 Hellfire ATGMs or 4 M260 or LAU-61/A launchers with 19x70 mm NUR, 4 AIM-92 Stinger air-to-air missiles, or combinations thereof .

TTX AH-64
Year of adoption 1984
Main rotor diameter 14.63 m
Tail rotor diameter 2.79 m
Helicopter length with rotating propellers 17.3 m
Length 14.97 m
Height 4.66 m
Main rotor sweep area 168.1 sq.m
Crew 2 people
Service ceiling 6400 m
Static ceiling 4570 m
Maximum flight range (only with internal fuel supply) 400 km
Maximum flight range (with external fuel supply) 1900 km
Internal fuel capacity 1157 kg
PTB 4 x 871
Maximum flight duration 3 hours 9 meters (with internal fuel reserve)
Engines 2 x General Electric T700-GE-701C
Power 2 x 1825 hp (1342 kW)
Maximum rate of climb 942 m/min
Maximum vertical rate of climb 474 m/min
Speed ​​- Maximum 365 km/h
Speed ​​- Cruising 293 km/h
Rate of climb 14.6 m/s
Weight - Maximum 9520 kg
Weight - Normal 5550 kg
Weight - Empty 5165 kg

Now, by comparing the numbers, you can see where we lost.

By analogy with the Americans, a competition was announced with the participation of the Moscow Helicopter Plant named after. M. L. Mil and in the OKB N. I. Kamov. Despite the fact that the specifications for the implementation of the design and development work were approved by the commanders-in-chief of the Air Force and Ground Forces only in 1980, the preliminary requirements became known earlier. The new aircraft for round-the-clock and all-weather use was supposed to have a high indicator of the “efficiency-cost” criterion, borrowed from the West and becoming “fashionable” in the USSR. In addition, it was necessary to ensure crew survival in critical situations, autonomous operation with minimal use of ground equipment, high operational manufacturability and low cost in mass production, a highly automated on-board complex, and powerful high-precision weapons. One or two crew members had to cope with such a multifunctional creation.

Scheme Selection

A special feature of the competition was the participation of design bureaus - adherents of various helicopter designs. Thus, the problem of determining methods for comparing them was initially laid down. It would be naive to assume that existing developments will not be used in new projects. To justify the design decisions taken, specialists from both design bureaus analyzed transverse, single-rotor and coaxial designs, and assessed their impact on the performance of main combat missions, one of which is air combat. To solve this problem, it was necessary to increase maneuverability, the achievement of which was impossible without taking into account the latest advances in the field of aerodynamics and strength. Increasing combat survivability required measures to armor and duplicate some units and systems. The optimal composition of the crew, its placement and rescue scheme were determined. At the same time, foreign analogues were analyzed, the latest achievements of science and technology, and the latest weapons were taken into account. Rotary-wing aircraft designed to support ground forces, escort transport helicopters, destroy armored vehicles, and conduct close combat air combat, was supposed to be operated primarily at extremely low altitudes (ELA), flights at which have features that affect design solutions.

Drawing of a transverse rotorcraft made by S. N. Fomin

Experience combat use helicopters showed that to minimize the impact of air defense, they must fly in the so-called “safety corridor” at a PMV of 5-15 m. At the same time, reducing the likelihood of damage was achieved by increasing maneuverability, by increasing permissible overloads, roll and pitch angles, flight speeds and sliding angles .

A complex task was being solved - piloting while simultaneously searching for and destroying targets. Working in such conditions is characterized by high level linear, angular accelerations and psychophysiological loads on the pilot under time pressure. These factors favored a two-person crew. To save them, the customer required the installation of ejection seats, based on information about the presence of such on the S-72 helicopter, created in the USA under the RSRA program (Rotor Systems Research Aircraft - an aircraft for researching rotor systems). The use of catapults presupposed the mandatory shooting of the NV blades, however, tests carried out on the Mi-4 showed the difficulty of implementing safe shooting, so the developers of the MVZ considered as a priority the option of a twin-rotor rotorcraft with a transverse design, including with a pusher propeller. This solution not only guaranteed safe ejection outside the NV zone, but also made it possible to include the wing, which had become almost an iconic element, in the design. All previously developed strike vehicles in the United States had it, including the notorious AN-56, which could not but influence Soviet design thought. There were also developments on the wing on the Mi-6, Mi-24 and V-12. Not only did it make it easier to place the entire range of weapons under the wing, it also made it easier to take off an overloaded vehicle with a running start, providing advantages over a classic helicopter, and also unloaded the NV in flight, preserving its service life.

At OKB im. N.I. Kamov had a good groundwork for the Ka-22 transverse rotorcraft. The design of transverse combat helicopters in this design bureau was carried out under the leadership of the head of the technical projects department, S. N. Fomin. He personally did the drawings of the external views.

The design of the B-100 combat rotorcraft with a transverse rotor arrangement and an additional pusher propeller was brought to the stage of a demonstration model. Not without the influence of "Cheyenne" - the B-100 was distinguished by the high degree of novelty of the proposed scientific and technical solutions. The initial projects of this team were two-seater.

The designers of the N.I. Kamov Design Bureau, in their research on a transverse rotorcraft, which had fairly perfect aerodynamic shapes, only went as far as layout drawings and models. The cost center specialists went further.

In 1972, under the leadership of chief designer M. N. Tishchenko, the design of “product 280” began. In 1973, they designed a twin-engine machine with a take-off weight of 11.5 tons, with two propellers with a diameter of 10.3 m and a pusher propeller. The pilot production of the cost center built its full-size model with relatively conservative shapes.

Demonstration model of a two-seat transverse combat rotorcraft B-100 with two three-bladed, folding NVs, one pusher propeller and an air-to-ground missile

However, calculations carried out by both companies showed that when performing coordinated horizontal maneuvers, even not with maximum roll values, a transverse helicopter will always reach heights above 15 meters due to the large transverse dimensions compared to helicopters of other configurations. In this case, the probability of its defeat increases to 85-90%. In addition, lateral stability and controllability deteriorated during uncoordinated maneuvers due to aerodynamic features and cross-links on transverse helicopters, which is unacceptable in WWII. Satisfying air transportability requirements also became significantly more difficult. For the B-100, a rather complex version of folding the LNV with rotating the wing and fixing it along the fuselage was worked out.

Model of a twin-rotor MVZ helicopter with a transverse design and a pusher propeller

Kamovites also analyzed the design of a longitudinal combat helicopter, as evidenced by the presence in the design bureau of a demonstration model, beyond which the work did not progress. The transverse design, despite its promise in terms of achieving a maximum speed of 450-550 km/h, was rejected by both companies. Thus, the designers turned to traditional, single-screw and coaxial designs.

Model B-100 with folded NV blades and rotated wing

Demonstration model of a helicopter from the N. I. Kamov Design Bureau, indicating the development of longitudinal design projects at the company

Interest in the coaxial design was fueled by the fact that since 1973, Sikorsky had been conducting research under the ABC (Advance Blade Concept) program. Two experimental S-69 (XN-59A) helicopters were built with rigid coaxial NVs, which solved the problem of their “clapping”.

This helicopter reached a maximum speed of 296 km/h, in a flat dive - 358 km/h, and with the use of additional turbojet engines - 485 km/h. The coaxial design was a priority of the N.I. Kamov Design Bureau, which initially designed a two-seat combat helicopter. Later they developed a single-seat vehicle based on the developments of S. N. Fomin.

The design of a single-seat aircraft was considered by the OKB to be a progressive step, a qualitatively new technical step in helicopter engineering and should have a positive effect on improving combat and operational characteristics. The emphasis was placed on the development of information technology to provide intellectual support for the pilot. At the same time, it was planned to preserve the possibility of ejecting the pilot. An experimental machine of a coaxial design with semi-rigid fastening of the blades to the HB bushing by means of a plate-like metal torsion bar was designated B-80.

Experimental helicopter S-69 (ХН-59А) with rigid coaxial rotors

Model of the first version of the two-seat combat helicopter of the N. I. Kamov Design Bureau of a coaxial design with a fixed gun

The designers of the cost center approached coaxial and longitudinal schemes, at least according to the residual principle, and turned to their favorite classic single-rotor scheme. At the same time, the requirements for the possibility of performing flight in the mode of following the terrain and delivering strikes from low and ultra-low altitudes led to the abandonment of catapults. The pilots simply did not have time to use them during WWII; they had to rely only on the strength of the vehicle and means of survival. The latter involved the use of safely deformable structural elements, an energy-intensive chassis and energy-absorbing seats.

The first layout option for a single-seat combat helicopter, proposed by S. N. Fomin

The abandonment of the rotorcraft design made it possible to increase the weight output, combat load and simplify the design.

Many models and several mock-ups were built, including six full-size ones, which made it possible to work out the optimal layout. Among them there was a transverse design with an NV with a diameter of 8.25 m and two GTD-10FP engines with a power of 1,950 hp. With. each and two mock-ups of a single-rotor design: with an NV with a diameter of 14.25 m and two GTD-10FP engines, as well as with a diameter of 16 m and two TVZ-117F engines. The latter option was considered more promising; a significant role was played by the fact that reliable TV3-117 had already been mastered by industry.

Model of the first version of a single-seat combat helicopter from the N. I. Kamov Design Bureau with a self-aligning wing and a fixed gun

By 1976, the appearance and layout of the “ed. 280" have decided. The main weapons were to be the Sturm ATGM and a mobile 30-mm cannon. The cockpit and main units had to be protected from 7.62 and 12.7 mm caliber bullets, and the flight navigation system had to ensure operation in minimal weather conditions, day and night. The maximum speed was set within 380-420 km/h. The work was headed by Deputy Chief Designer A. N. Ivanov, the responsible leading designer was M. V. Weinberg.

Before the approval of technical specifications for R&D in 1980, both companies carried out preliminary design, based on their own understanding of the concept and based on known requirements. Design bureaus had relative freedom of action, which led to competition unprecedented in the history of aviation. Combat helicopters were designed that differed not only in aerodynamic design, but also in weight, armament, equipment and crew.

The helicopter, designated Mi-28, was designed as a two-seater. This made it possible to divide the functions of piloting, observation, target recognition, aiming, and communications between crew members. Placing pilots side by side was abandoned after analysis of side-view diagrams from the cockpit. The qualitative assessment of the view from the Mi-24 taken as a basis was “satisfactory” and became “insufficient” when assessing the left pilot’s view to the right, with the “side-by-side” layout. The asymmetry of the view made it difficult for the pilot to perform maneuvers to the right due to the difficulty of assessing the distance to the ground on the PMV. And this, in turn, affected survivability and combat effectiveness.

The choice of the “tandem” design, with a fairly narrow fuselage and a high pilot position relative to the side, provided “excellent” visibility, like the AN-64 “Apache”, which was to be surpassed in key indicators.

Weight perfection with a given strength, reliability and combat survivability were achieved thanks to the optimal design method, which proved its effectiveness in the creation of the Mi-26 (see “Science and Technology” No. 3/2013). At the same time, a layout with the so-called “central core” was considered, when vital units and systems were located inside the longitudinal load-bearing frame, and secondary equipment and units were outside it. The difficulties in achieving compliance with vibration and strength characteristics, as well as the vulnerability of auxiliary equipment, forced us to abandon this attractive design and return to a traditional layout.

One of six full-size mock-ups of the “280 product”, in which there is a clear resemblance to the nose of the Mi-24, but the artillery mount is like in the US AAN projects

The given level of combat survivability was ensured by duplicating the main units with their maximum separation and shielding by less valuable ones. The selection of materials, design dimensions and armor provided enough time to return to base in case of damage and prevented catastrophic destruction of the vehicle.

The preliminary design was completed by the end of 1977. For another year and a half, the requirements for the weapons system and the sighting, flight and navigation system were coordinated. The approval of the TTZ was completed only in 1979, after which detailed design and work began in specialized research institutes and flight test organizations such as TsAGI, LII, VIAM, NIIAS, State Research Institute of the Air Force, etc. Such a number of participants indicates that the design of the “product 280" has taken on the character of a national comprehensive program comparable in complexity to the creation of a promising combat aircraft. To test the units, 54 ground stands and several LLs based on the Mi-8, -24 were created.

The barrel of the Mi-28 gun board 012 was used as a tool rod on which the PVD and ROV were placed

The second prototype of the Mi-28 board 022, intended for testing weapons

In August 1980, the Military Industrial Commission approved the construction of two prototypes, pending the official conclusion of the layout commission, the positive conclusion of which was received only at the end of the next year. In 1981, a sample was ready for static testing, and in July 1982, the first flight sample was ready - board No. 012, on which on November 10, 1982 test pilots (G. R. Karapetyan and V. V. Tsygankov) performed a hover, and December 19, 1982 - first circular flight.

In September 1983, the second flight prototype was ready - board 022, on which weapons were mainly tested. Both prototypes, intended for use in daytime, limited adverse weather conditions, were tested until 1987.

Features of national competition

In 1983, factory tests of the Ka-50 and Mi-28 helicopters were completed, and in December the first stage of state tests began, ending on September 20, 1984 and April 19, 1985 for the Ka-50 and Mi-28, respectively. 27 flights were carried out on each type of helicopter, after which they were transferred to the State Research Institute of the Air Force named after. Chkalov for the second stage of testing.

In 1986, the Mi-28 successfully passed the main part of the state testing program, received a high rating, fully corresponded to its purpose and was superior in many respects to helicopters of a similar class. MAP decided to mass produce the Mi-28 at the Progress plant in Arsenyev. By this time, the pre-production prototype “Product 286”, designated Mi-28A, was ready at the Moscow Helicopter Plant. This was the third experimental vehicle 00-03, the construction of which began in 1985 and in which all the wishes of the military were taken into account. However, the customer chose the Ka-50, considering that at the current pace of electronics development it was possible to create an automated complex that would allow a single-seat combat helicopter to more effectively cope with the tasks assigned to it.

Experimental B-80, first flight, which took place in June 1982

In addition, during the tests it turned out that the Ka-50 had superiority in static ceiling, rate of climb, ease of piloting, the “effectiveness-cost” criterion and the effectiveness of supersonic ATGMs. According to the commission, the only advantage of the Mi-28 was the presence of a mobile cannon installation. The dispute turned to tactics and safety of use. Supporters of the Mi-28 put forward the argument that one pilot cannot detect, recognize targets and attack them at the altitudes specified by the TTZ, due to safety conditions. In contrast, S.V. Mikheev voiced the essence of the concept of a single-seat attack combat helicopter: “There is no need to prove that one pilot works better than two, there is no need to prove the unprovable. But if one pilot on our helicopter can do what two pilots on a competing helicopter will have to do, that will be a victory.” The Ka50 clearly appealed to the fighter pilot, Air Force Commander-in-Chief P.S. Kutakhov, a participant in the Great Patriotic War, and was chosen for mass production. The achievements realized during the creation of the Mi-28 were proposed to be used for a new modification of the Mi-24, which corresponded to the principle of reverse unification laid down in the TTZ, i.e., the possibility of using components and assemblies of the helicopter being developed to modernize existing ones.

The third experimental pre-production Mi-28A No. 032. Photo taken at the Flight Research Institute in Zhukovsky by A. Oblamsky, courtesy of S. Moroz

The experimental helicopter Mi-28N (OP-1) board 014 was converted from the first experimental Mi-28 No. 00-01, board 012

The third prototype of the Mi-28 No. 032 was the first to be equipped with an X-shaped tail rotor and a new design. For exhibition in Le Bourget, it was assigned the exhibition number “H-390”

The authority of the Air Force Commander-in-Chief, a member of the CPSU Central Committee, and a deputy of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR did not allow discussing this decision during the life of P. S. Kutakhov. However, his death allowed the management of the Moscow Helicopter Plant to appeal to the new Air Force Commander-in-Chief, Air Marshal A. N. Efimov, and to the MAP with a request to continue comparative tests of the Mi-28 and Ka-50 in testing conditions as close as possible to combat ones.

It was decided to carry out the tests according to a single program for both helicopters in a short time with a minimum allocation of resources. At the first stage, performance characteristics, characteristics of stability, controllability, maneuverability, and strength were assessed. At the same time, the target environment of the training ground was formed and a method was developed for comparative assessment of the capabilities of helicopters to search for ground targets. At the second stage, it was necessary to study the main characteristics of SD, NAR, and cannon weapons and evaluate the safety of their use. To do this, single and group targets from tanks, infantry fighting vehicles, armored personnel carriers and vehicles were placed at the training grounds, which, at the command of the experiment leader, could appear unexpectedly for the pilots, on periodically changed routes. To record the accuracy of ATGM hits, there were shields with frontal and side projections of tanks, which could move at variable speeds. In the target area, light, smoke and dust interfered with the ATGM guidance systems. Penetration was assessed based on the impact on armor plates 1,000 mm thick and on real tanks. Separate target fields were intended to determine the accuracy characteristics of the NAR and the gun. The escort helicopter filmed the launches and firing, and also noted the results of the hits.

The movement parameters of the helicopter and ATGM systems, control actions of the pilots and their psychophysiological state (pulse and breathing rates, attention reserve) were recorded. Video cameras recorded the direction of the pilot's gaze and the duration of his delay on the instruments and outside the cockpit.

The experimental Mi-28 board 012 was equipped with a three-blade tail rotor from the Mi-24. Photo taken at the LII Zhukovsky by A. Oblamsky, courtesy of S. Moroz

During tests of the Mi-28, a controllability margin was revealed, and by 1986 the customer wished to expand the range of permissible overloads for more energetic maneuvering. Refinement of the LNV and hydraulic system made it possible to increase the vertical overload when performing a “slide” to 2.65 units. at an altitude of 500 m and 1.8 units. at an altitude of 4,000 m. At the same time, the flight speeds “sideways” and “tail forward” increased. The successful development of the helicopter's systems and their compatibility with weapons made it possible to carry out the first experimental night launch of a guided missile against a ground target.

In 1987, an X-shaped tail rotor and an electronic control unit of a new design were installed on the Mi-28A No. 032, after which the appearance and equipment for production vehicles was finally determined. Testing of the helicopter began in January 1988, and since 1989 it has participated in the Le Bourget and MAKS air shows. Since 2010 it has been in the Museum of the Moscow Helicopter Plant.

Since January 1991, Mi-28A No. 042 joined the tests. During participation in LeBurget-93, it was assigned the exhibition number N-315.

In 1993, a preliminary conclusion was received based on the results of the first stage of state tests of the Mi-28A attack helicopter and a decision was being prepared to release their pilot batch. By that time, the general designer of the Moscow Helicopter Plant named after. M. L. Mil became M. V. Weinberg, who, taking into account world experience and achievements in the field of avionics and night vision systems, proposed to stop the development of the Mi-28A and begin the development of a round-the-clock, all-weather modification with a fundamentally new set of Mi-28A avionics 28N (“N” - night) R&D “Avangard-2”. The program was headed by chief designer V. G. Shcherbina.

According to the plan, the Mi-28N was supposed to carry out combat missions at any time of the day, in any weather, remaining unobtrusive to air defense systems due to flight at an extremely low altitude of 10-20 meters, skirting the terrain and flying around obstacles in automatic mode. In addition, the helicopter must exchange data on enemy targets both with ground control points and with other aircraft via closed communication channels. For its ability to hit all kinds of enemy targets at night, the helicopter received the name “Night Hunter”.

The experimental Mi-28N (OP-1) helicopter, board 014, was converted from the first experimental Mi-28 No. 00-01, board 012 in August 1996. The crew of test pilot V. Yudin and navigator S. Nikulin first took it into the air on November 14, 1996 at the Moscow Helicopter Plant. M. L. Mil. On April 30, 1997, factory flight tests began. At the same time, the Rostov Helicopter Production Association (RVPO) was preparing for serial production with an acute shortage of financial resources, which delayed the creation of some complexes and systems for the Mi-28N.

In 2000, the general director of Rostvertol OJSC B. N. Slyusar (died in 2015) initiated a program to build prototype helicopters at the expense of the plant. "Rostvertol" together with the Moscow Helicopter Plant named after. By the beginning of 2004, M. L. Mil created a prototype in Rostov - “OP-2”, which performed its first hover on March 25, and already made its first flight on March 31.

In February 2005, a state commission was created to conduct state joint tests (GST) of prototypes - OP-1 and OP-2, the latter of which began testing in June 2005.

After the successful completion of the first stage of the GSI in March 2006, the state commission chaired by the Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Air Force, Army General V.S. Mikhailov, issued a conclusion on the release of the pilot batch of Mi-28N, and already in May the first production Mi-28N board No. 32 arrived for testing ( 01-01). In total, two experimental and seven production aircraft participated in the GSI, which performed more than 800 flights, after which on December 26, 2008, Air Force Commander-in-Chief A. N. Zelin approved the GSI Act for the Mi-28N helicopter.

A modern combat helicopter for the Russian Armed Forces has been created! On October 15, 2009, the President of the Russian Federation signed a decree on the adoption of the Mi-28N helicopter into service with the Russian Air Force as the main attack helicopter.

Modifications with dual controls and others

As soon as the Night Stalkers entered service, the need for a dual-control version arose. In April 2009, an agreement was concluded between Rostvertol and the cost center on its creation directly at the serial plant. At the same time, the Mi-28UB was supposed to be the first Rostvertol aircraft, in the production of which digital models were used. They decided to build a prototype Mi-28UB (OP-1) on the basis of the Mi-28N No. 02-01, tail No. 37, produced in 2007.

In 2012, the helicopter was returned to the factory to replace the nose with a new one, created using those same digital models. In addition to organizing a full set of redundant controls in the front cockpit, other changes were made: the cabin became wider, the canopy became slightly different and Entrance door, to improve visibility, the area of ​​the side glazing was increased, and the configuration of the energy-absorbing chair was changed. Now in the front cockpit, instead of a navigator-operator, there was a pilot-instructor or an operator, if necessary.

This allows the Mi-28UB to be used for effective training in piloting helicopters of the Mi-28N (NE) type while fully maintaining all the combat capabilities of the base vehicle.

On July 31, 2013, the crew consisting of honored test pilots of Russia - commander S. S. Barkov and operator G. A. Ananyev - took the vehicle off the ground for the first time, and on August 9 performed the first full-profile flight.

In 2013, it became known that the creation of a prototype of a deeply modernized version of the Mi28NM, which has been under development since 2008, began. The new modification must differ significantly from its prototype and be fully adapted for operation in network-centric wars, which involves full integration into the global system for transmitting video images, target coordinates and other information through available channels. The helicopter, like its competitor, the latest modification of the AN-64E, will be capable of working with UAVs. According to the deputy head of the Russian Helicopters holding company A. Shibitov, tests of the Mi-28NM should begin soon.

Comparative assessment of the MI-28NE helicopter with its competitor AN-64D

Correct comparison is impossible without conducting sufficiently in-depth scientific research. In the USSR, such research was carried out in the air force academies - engineering named after. N. E. Zhukovsky, who turns 95 years old on November 23, 2015, and the team named after. Yu. A. Gagarin. Based on the analysis of available information, methodological manuals were published, which were sent to combat units to study the aircraft of a potential enemy and successfully combat them. In 1986, such a manual was published on the AN-64A. Similar work was carried out at TsAGI, in this case the results were used by the Design Bureau and other industrial organizations to create promising aircraft.

In 1995, the Swedish Ministry of Defense decided to update its fleet of combat helicopters and selected the Russian Mi-28A and the American AN-64A Apache from various types to conduct comparative tests. Our Mi-28A board 042 was delivered on an Il-76 transport aircraft to Sweden, where it was tested, including live firing.

Mi-28 board 042 with exhibition number N-315 and a tool rod for PVD and DUAS installed on the left side of the forward fuselage. Photo: S. G. Moroz

Roll out of the first Mi-28N, produced at Rostvertol in 2005, which became the second prototype of the Night Hunter (OP-2)

On the territory of the Northern Military District, the Mi-28A performed combat training missions: combat with an advancing group and a strike on targets in deep enemy defenses. Strikes from different directions against targets against a real tactical background were simulated. The Mi-28A helicopter was countered by short-range air defense systems RBS-90 and ZSK LVKV 90, as well as JA-37 2Vigen fighters.” The Mi-28A did not perform real combat firing, but the use of all types of weapons was simulated. The surveillance and sighting system functioned flawlessly, and even Swedish operators without the appropriate level of training found it easy to work with it. The tests demonstrated the high probability of target detection, the speed of bringing weapons into combat readiness and the ability to use weapons from the maximum distance from the target. At the training ground in Vidzel, the “twenty-eighth” completed a one-day live firing program with all types of weapons. The helicopter was piloted by a Swedish crew. The 9M114 “Sturm” ATGM was launched from a hover at a target 900 m away, and the 9M120 “Attack” was launched from a horizontal flight at a speed of 200 km/h and a target distance of 4,700 m. Both missiles passed at a distance of about 1 m from target tank. The Swedes considered this result to be good, and the preservation of hit accuracy with increasing range and flight speed of the carrier was amazing.

The launch of the S-8 NAR was carried out from horizontal flight at a speed of 160 km/h to a range of 2,000 m and from pitching up at a speed of 220 km/h to a range of 4,000 m.

The fourth prototype of the Mi-28 board 042 is in flight

The main part of the missiles covered an area measuring 400-600 m by 100-200 m. The launch results from 2,000 m were considered acceptable, and from a range of 4,000 m - surprisingly good. During one of the launches, due to the non-design mode of use of the NAR, a surge occurred in one of the helicopter engines. The electronic regulator brought the second engine to maximum power, and the crew managed to land the car safely. The Swedish pilot explained to Russian specialists that on any other type of helicopter he was familiar with, a similar incident could have ended very sadly.

After firing at the training ground, the Mi-28A made a flight of almost 1,000 km to the Central Military District. Here, against a real tactical background, two more combat training missions were completed: containing mechanized forces and supporting the advance of tank units, and then a second demonstration flight took place. In total, the Mi-28 “Technical Demonstration Program” took three weeks and about 30 flight hours.

Ultimately, the Swedes assessed the Mi-28 as a very durable and reliable helicopter, well suited for use in field conditions, with high survivability. Not a single flight was disrupted due to malfunctions mechanical systems. Maintenance could be performed by conscript personnel under the supervision of a technical officer. It was especially emphasized that the Mi-28 turned out to be capable of effectively performing combat missions in accordance with the Western concept of using anti-tank helicopters. The Mi-28 is focused on the Russian tactics of striking on the move, when external control of the crew’s actions is reduced to a minimum. The Swedes “profess” Western tactics - launching ATGMs at maximum range from an almost stationary position in folds of the terrain (before launching a missile, the helicopter “bounces”) with preliminary reconnaissance of the target and issuing target designation to the crew of a combat helicopter.

According to the Swedes, the helicopter proved to be “very reliable and well adapted to field conditions.” The Swedes demanded that the helicopter be equipped with equipment that allows it to conduct fighting at night. The second stage of the tender was postponed to 2001 and later cancelled.

As soon as the “Night Hunter” entered service with the armed forces of its country, it became in demand on the world market, for which the Mi-28NE modification was created.

One of the Mi-28Ns successfully completed a series of demonstration flights in North Africa in July 2007. According to media reports, Venezuela and Algeria are showing interest in purchasing them. In 2009, the Mi-28NE participated in a tender announced by the Indian Defense Ministry for the purchase of 22 modern combat helicopters. The finalists of the tender were the Russian Mi-28NE and the American AH-64D. In 2010, both helicopters performed a series of demonstration and test flights in the difficult climatic and mountain conditions of India, and before that, one Mi-28N (No. 38) underwent special tests in the vicinity of Elbrus, confirming high performance characteristics in high altitude conditions. However, the old story repeated itself - in the final choice, preference was given to the Apache.

According to media publications, the first foreign operator of the Mi-28NE should be Iraq. Potential customers may be countries such as Algeria, Venezuela, Peru, etc.

Some sources on helicopter topics say that from a distance of 3,000 m at certain viewing angles the AN-64 and Mi-28 are difficult to distinguish, explaining this by external similarity and blaming Once again Russians in plagiarism. Yes, both helicopters have almost the same aerodynamic configuration for the Mi-28 and YAN-64A modifications, but different external contours and contours. In addition, the Mi-28 fuselage is longer and wider, which led to a larger projection area of ​​the helicopter from below. The cross-sectional areas of helicopters are approximately the same. Another significant difference is the five-blade NV with a larger diameter than the four-blade Apache propeller. Based on this, the Russian helicopter is heavier than the American one and has differences in performance characteristics. Comparative characteristics helicopters Mi-28NE and its competitor AN-64D are shown in the table.

Despite the fact that the Russian helicopter is three tons heavier than the American one, the ratio of normal take-off weight to engine power of the Mi-28 is better. In terms of mass and specific weight of the combat load, the Mi-28NE surpasses its competitor, it is almost 21%, while for the AN-64D this figure is about 19%. In terms of other performance characteristics, the Mi-28NE is inferior to its opponent. Nevertheless, it also has significant advantages. We cannot agree with the opinion of some representatives of the Indian Air Force that the AH-64D is more maneuverable and its armor protection is superior to the Mi-28N.

Thus, at a speed of more than 120-150 km/h, gliding for the AN-64 is limited or not allowed at all due to the strength of the flywheel and tail boom, which significantly limits the ability to perform combat maneuvers, while the Mi-28 performs basic maneuvers aerobatics, despite the heavy armor.

In addition, the five-blade NV Mi-28 is more efficient than the four-blade propeller installed on the AN-64, especially at low speeds, and has a lower level of vibration, which is very important when aiming. The view from the Apache pilot and gunner's cockpit is limited: forward and down by the side sponsons, back by the engines. The Mi-28 has smooth lateral contours of the front part of the fuselage good review. At the same time, the glazing area of ​​the cockpit of the American car is larger, and the panels have a slight convexity, while the flat panels on the Mi-28 are capable of creating unidirectional glare in the cockpit, interfering with the reading of instrument readings.

Pre-production Mi-28N board 38 during testing in high altitude conditions. This machine became a model of the export version of the Mi-28NE and participated in test flights abroad

The design of both helicopters is designed to withstand 23mm shells. At the same time, the Mi-28 has a greater chance of surviving in battle due to better armor, since the Apache only has armor covering the cockpit.

The design of the Mi-28 allows it to withstand a collision with the ground without serious consequences for the crew with a vertical descent speed of 15.4 m/s, while the Apache has this speed limited to 11.69 m/s.

The vehicle's on-board equipment includes an all-round radar. Unlike the radar of the American Apache helicopter, it is capable of solving flight and navigation problems.

A comparative assessment of the Mi-28NE helicopter in terms of the use of cannon armament indicates that the 2A42 cannon is superior to the M230 ChainGun in terms of range of use and mass per second salvo. The use of the 2A42 gun made it possible to increase firepower, but, at the same time, aggravated serious problems. With a gun mount mass of about 200 kg, the recoil when firing is much higher than that of aircraft guns. Placing the gun on the turret entailed local strengthening of the structure and an increase in the weight of the empty helicopter. Due to the high recoil and the presence of a shoulder to the center of mass, the helicopter sways, which leads to a deterioration in shooting accuracy. Nevertheless, representatives of the Moscow Helicopter Plant guarantee better shooting accuracy than the AN-64. The Apache has 1,200 rounds of ammunition, while the Mi-28 has only 250, but it requires fewer rounds to destroy a target, given the much higher efficiency of its gun mount (3-4 times according to various estimates).

In addition, it is possible to install two universal gun containers UPK-23-250, with a 23-mm GSh-23L cannon and an ammunition load of 250 shells.

The main caliber of “tank hunters” are ATGMs. Their number is the same for both helicopters. However, the Hellfire has laser guidance, and its use at night is problematic, while the Attack has radio command guidance, which is susceptible to radio interference, but has no restrictions on atmospheric transparency.

Self-guided supersonic air-to-air missile of the Igla-V type ensures destruction of all types of tactical aircraft, helicopters, cruise missiles and UAVs in conditions of background and artificial interference, operates on the “fire and forget” principle at altitudes from 10 to 3 500 m and is not inferior to the American AIM-92 Stinger.

The NAR S-8 80 mm caliber, S-13 122 mm caliber and S-24 240 mm caliber used on the helicopter have a greater range and armor penetration than the 70 mm M260 and Hydra 70 missiles.

Competing helicopters have an onboard defense system that is approximately the same in composition and capabilities, including spreaders of IR traps and dipole reflectors and receivers that warn of laser and radar irradiation. However, potential customers stated that the American helicopter is superior to the export version of its Russian competitor in the capabilities of electronic warfare systems, survivability, the level of situational awareness of the crew, the ability to conduct combat operations at night, the effectiveness of on-board electronics, as well as its weapons. At the same time, as we remember, the Swedes noted the impossibility of using it in night combat as the biggest drawback of the Mi-28A, expressing confidence that the Mi-28N would be able to cope with such a task.

In relation to the Apache, the excessive complexity of on-board equipment and systems was noted. Its maintenance requires lengthy training of engineering and technical staff.

Considering that the modernization of the AH-64D and -E helicopters is currently ongoing and a new modification of the Mi-28NM is being created, they will remain competitors and the most advanced combat helicopters in the world for a long time. But which one is better and by what criteria is up to you to decide, based on the above analysis and the history of the development of combat helicopters. At the same time, we should not forget that “all other things being equal, in a real battle much is decided by chance and not so much by the characteristics inherent in military equipment, but by its skillful use.”

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