Russian Mi-28 Attack Helicopter Capabilities and Specs

Attack helicopter specifications have gotten complicated with all the competing claims and limited access to reliable data. As someone who has followed Russian military aviation developments closely, I learned everything there is to know about the Mi-28 Havoc. Today, I will share it all with you.

Development Background

The Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant started designing the Mi-28 in the late 1970s. The Soviets needed something to complement the Mi-24 Hind—a dedicated attack platform without the troop transport compromise. First prototype flew November 10, 1982.

Probably should have led with this section, honestly. The Soviet Union collapsed before the Mi-28 reached full production. Funding dried up, priorities shifted, and the program stalled for years. Russia eventually pushed it forward, but that delay shaped the helicopter’s development path.

Design Features

The Mi-28 uses a tandem cockpit with the pilot seated behind the gunner. This arrangement improves visibility for both crew positions during combat. Armor protects the cockpit and engine compartments against small arms fire and shrapnel—essential for a helicopter that operates close to ground threats.

That’s what makes the Mi-28 endearing to us military aviation observers—it was designed purely for attack missions, no compromises for secondary roles.

Weapons and Systems

• 30mm Shipunov 2A42 Autocannon: Mounted under the nose with wide traverse angles. Dual-feed system lets the crew switch between ammunition types.
• Ataka Anti-Tank Missiles: Primary guided weapon for engaging armored vehicles at standoff distances.
• Unguided Rocket Pods: Useful for suppression missions and infantry targets.

Modern avionics packages include thermal imaging and night vision for low-light operations. Navigation systems support mission planning and execution. Crash-resistant crew seats and fuel systems address survivability in hostile environments.

Variants in Service

• Mi-28A: Original production variant from early testing phases.
• Mi-28N Night Hunter: All-weather and night-fighting capability. This version significantly extended operational flexibility.
• Mi-28NE: Export configuration adapted for international customers.
• Mi-28NM: Latest upgrade with improved radar, engines, and electronic warfare systems.

Operational Role

The Mi-28 handles anti-armor missions, close air support, and tactical reconnaissance. Russian forces deploy it where they need firepower and durability. The helicopter’s design emphasizes survivability in contested airspace.

Compared to Western attack helicopters, the Mi-28 trades some sophistication for ruggedness. Russian doctrine historically accepts this tradeoff.

Current Operators

Russia remains the primary operator with various Mi-28 models across military branches. Iraq and Algeria have purchased export versions and integrated them into their air forces. Each customer adapts the platform to local requirements and maintenance capabilities.

Training Requirements

Flying the Mi-28 requires extensive preparation. Simulator training builds proficiency before pilots transition to actual aircraft. Maintenance technicians need specialized instruction on the helicopter’s systems. Spare parts logistics and upgrade scheduling keep units ready for deployment.

Known Challenges

Early production units had reliability issues. Rotor system improvements and visibility enhancements came through iterative upgrades. The program’s interrupted development timeline created some integration problems that took years to resolve.

Future Development

The Mi-28 platform continues evolving. Potential upgrades include increased automation, integration with unmanned systems, and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities. Export interest suggests the helicopter will remain in production for years. Russia clearly sees value in extending the platform’s service life through ongoing modernization.