Multiple online sources confirmed that Nigeria took delivery of two brand new Mi-35 helicopters from Russia this week taking the numbers of this type of helicopters with the Nigerian Airforce to almost 20 with more still being expected. This helicopter have its place among the best military helicopters in the world and is even considered as the best in its class but what really make this helicopter special?
The Mi-35 which is the export variant of the Russian Mi-24 attack helicopter is famously known as the flying tank and is arguably the world's only "assault chopper" due to its combination of firepower and troop-carrying capability. It is operated by 2 crew with space for 8 more people. It is a Multirole Combat helicopter and extremely manoeuvrable and it integrates modern high-precision weaponry for destroying ground-based armoured targets and providing air support for ground mission and can be modified as an attack, ground assault, medical evacuation (MEDVAC) or transport platform.
It can function in high temperature and high-altitude environment and is equipped with state of the art avionics and is configured for day and night combat operation. It has a surveillance and sighting station, a television channel and GPS-guided navigation station. A chin turret can be fitted with the twin-barrel Gsh-23V 23mm cannon with 450 to 470 rounds a minute. Also, the stub wings can carry a range of weapon systems including anti-tank missiles, rocket pods/gun pods, or fuel tanks and can be fitted (for combat) with eight 9M114 or 9M120 Ataka-V Saclos radio guided anti-tank missiles. The Mi-24 can also be armed with up to 80 'S-8' 80mm unguided rockets and 20 'S-13' type 122mm unguided aircraft rockets.
Mi-35 countermeasures includes Chaff and Flare launch system, radar warning receiver, a location finder and a lasar range finder, an infrared (IR) jamming system and engine-exhaust IR suppressor. The Mi-35 cockpit and vital component of the helicopter are significantly armoured.
It is powered by two TV3-117 MA or two VK-2500 engines each with a maximum power output of 2,200hp with ability to support high-altitude mission. The helicopter has a maximum speed of 335km/h (208mph) with an operational range of 450km without external tank.
It has seen combat in many wars and conflict including the Soviet-Afghan War, The Libyan Civil War, Ivorian Crisis, Ukranian Crisis, Syrian Civil War and many others. The helicopters will be a very important addition for Nigeria in her fight against terrorism and militancy.
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