Intro
Discover the Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopters specs and capabilities. Learn about its advanced avionics, firepower, and maneuverability, making it a formidable opponent on the battlefield. Explore its features, including its coaxial rotor design, missile systems, and advanced targeting systems, making it a top choice for military forces worldwide.
The Ka-52 Alligator is a highly advanced attack helicopter designed by Kamov, a Russian rotorcraft manufacturer. This twin-seat helicopter is a variant of the Ka-50 Black Shark and is designed to provide air support for ground troops and conduct anti-tank warfare. The Ka-52 Alligator has been in service with the Russian military since 2011 and has seen action in several conflicts, including the Syrian Civil War.
Design and Features
The Ka-52 Alligator has a distinctive coaxial rotor design, with two rotors mounted on the same mast and rotating in opposite directions. This design provides improved stability and maneuverability, as well as increased lift capacity. The helicopter is powered by two VK-2500 turboshaft engines, each producing 2,400 horsepower.
The Ka-52 has a length of 15.5 meters (50.8 feet) and a rotor diameter of 14.5 meters (47.6 feet). It has a maximum takeoff weight of 10,400 kilograms (22,928 pounds) and a maximum speed of 310 kilometers per hour (193 miles per hour).
Cockpit and Avionics
The Ka-52 Alligator has a side-by-side cockpit configuration, with the pilot and co-pilot/gunner seated next to each other. The cockpit is equipped with advanced avionics, including a head-up display (HUD), a helmet-mounted sight (HMS), and a digital instrument panel.
The Ka-52 also features a sophisticated navigation system, including GPS and terrain-following radar. The helicopter's communication system includes a radio and an intercom system, allowing for communication with other aircraft and ground units.
Armament and Capabilities
The Ka-52 Alligator is armed with a 30mm 2A42 cannon, which is mounted on the right side of the fuselage. The cannon is capable of firing high-explosive and armor-piercing rounds.
In addition to the cannon, the Ka-52 can carry a variety of missiles and rockets on its four hardpoints. These include:
- 9M133 Kornet anti-tank missiles
- 9M120 Ataka anti-tank missiles
- S-8 and S-13 unguided rockets
- S-24 and S-25 air-to-surface missiles
The Ka-52 also has a capacity for carrying precision-guided munitions, including the 9M127 Vikhr and the 9M139.
Countermeasures and Protection
The Ka-52 Alligator has a number of countermeasures and protection systems to enhance its survivability. These include:
- A missile approach warning system (MAWS)
- A radar warning receiver (RWR)
- A chaff and flare dispenser
- Armor plating around the cockpit and engines
The Ka-52 also has a redundancy system, which allows the helicopter to continue flying even if one engine is damaged or disabled.
Operational History
The Ka-52 Alligator has seen operational service with the Russian military in several conflicts, including the Syrian Civil War. In 2015, Russia deployed a squadron of Ka-52s to Syria, where they were used to provide air support for Syrian government forces.
In 2017, the Ka-52 was used in combat for the first time, when it attacked a group of ISIS militants in the Syrian city of Deir ez-Zor.
Specifications
Here are the specifications of the Ka-52 Alligator:
- Length: 15.5 meters (50.8 feet)
- Rotor diameter: 14.5 meters (47.6 feet)
- Height: 5.4 meters (17.7 feet)
- Maximum takeoff weight: 10,400 kilograms (22,928 pounds)
- Engines: 2 x VK-2500 turboshaft engines
- Power: 2,400 horsepower each
- Maximum speed: 310 kilometers per hour (193 miles per hour)
- Range: 460 kilometers (286 miles)
- Service ceiling: 5,500 meters (18,045 feet)
- Crew: 2 (pilot and co-pilot/gunner)
Gallery of Ka-52 Alligator Attack Helicopter
Ka-52 Alligator Attack Helicopter Image Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ka-52 Alligator's primary role?
+The Ka-52 Alligator's primary role is to provide air support for ground troops and conduct anti-tank warfare.
What is the Ka-52 Alligator's top speed?
+The Ka-52 Alligator's top speed is 310 kilometers per hour (193 miles per hour).
What is the Ka-52 Alligator's range?
+The Ka-52 Alligator's range is 460 kilometers (286 miles).
What is the Ka-52 Alligator's armament?
+The Ka-52 Alligator is armed with a 30mm 2A42 cannon and can carry a variety of missiles and rockets on its four hardpoints.
What is the Ka-52 Alligator's service ceiling?
+The Ka-52 Alligator's service ceiling is 5,500 meters (18,045 feet).
We hope this article has provided you with a comprehensive overview of the Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopter. With its advanced design and capabilities, the Ka-52 is a formidable opponent on the battlefield.