Ukrainian drone operators are launching daring attacks on Russian helicopters using first-person view (FPV) drones, a new tactic that’s gaining momentum. A recently released video shows one of these drones targeting a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter, aiming directly for its vulnerable tail rotor. While the video cuts off before showing the impact, it suggests that Ukrainian forces are now using drones in a bold new way to challenge Russia’s air power. This marks a significant shift in the conflict, as drones increasingly threaten even heavily armed helicopters, adding a new layer of danger to the skies.
A recent video that circulated online captures a Ukrainian drone targeting a Russian Mi-28 Havoc attack helicopter. The footage, shot from the drone’s perspective, shows it approaching the helicopter from behind, then circling around to aim for the tail rotor. The tail rotor is a critical part of the helicopter, and damaging it can have serious consequences, possibly causing the helicopter to spin uncontrollably and crash.
The video cuts off abruptly, likely because the drone either collided with the helicopter or detonated near it. While the Mi-28 is designed to survive tough conditions, any damage to its tail rotor could end its mission, if not result in a complete loss.
There have been claims that the drone succeeded in bringing down the Mi-28. Ukrainian sources, including reports from the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU), suggest that this incident marks a successful hit by an FPV drone in the Kursk region of Russia. This area is currently experiencing heavy fighting as Ukrainian forces have launched a major assault across the border.
Some Russian social media accounts also admit that the Mi-28 was hit by a Ukrainian drone, forcing it to land. However, the exact fate of the helicopter remains uncertain.
Russian military bloggers claim that three helicopters—a Ka-52, a Mi-8, and the Mi-28—have been destroyed during the Kursk incursion, possibly all by FPV drones. Since the release of the Mi-28 footage, two more videos have emerged showing Ukrainian drones targeting other Russian helicopters, although the outcomes of these attacks aren’t clear.
This isn’t the first time drones have been used to target helicopters in this conflict, but it’s becoming more frequent. Both Ukrainian and Russian forces have attempted similar tactics, with varying degrees of success. However, the growing use of man-controlled drones to attack helicopters in flight signals a new phase in air combat.
Using drones to target helicopters makes sense for Ukraine, especially as its drone technology advances. Drones are becoming more sophisticated, and with the help of artificial intelligence (AI), they could potentially carry out attacks autonomously in the future.
The increasing threat from drones complicates helicopter operations for both sides. Helicopters are already limited by traditional air defenses near the front lines, and now they must contend with these new drone threats as well. If the reports are accurate, and the Mi-28 was engaged over Russian territory, this is particularly concerning for Russia.
FPV drones offer several advantages in these operations. Since helicopters are airborne, the drones can maintain a better connection with their operators, allowing them to strike from greater distances. If the drones are equipped with a relay system, their range can be extended even further.
Overall, the growing use of FPV drones in air defense is changing the dynamics of the battlefield, making helicopter operations even riskier, especially near the front lines. This new era of drone warfare is adding another layer of complexity to an already challenging conflict.
