The Russian Ministry of Defense released new footage showing the operational activity of Mi-28N Night Hunter attack helicopters alongside army aviation fire support teams. The footage highlights missions that shield attack helicopters by covering them from Mi-8 escort helicopters. The video appears on the ministry’s Telegram channels and is framed as evidence of the ongoing combat effectiveness of Western Military District air units in the special military operation zone in Ukraine.
Officials note that during the army aviation’s combat sorties in the operation zone, command posts and armored vehicles belonging to Ukrainian forces were targeted and neutralized. The clip captures takeoffs, mid-flight maneuvers, firing sequences, and landings of Mi-28s in conjunction with Mi-8s. It also features a member of the fire support team describing the mission and the procedures involved in the operation.
According to the crew member, if a combat helicopter is shot down, the fire support team will establish a landing and move to rescue the downed pilots. When the fire from the enemy is heavy, the group is trained to operate independently, including a designated machine gunner and several light machine gunners to sustain the mission from a ground support posture.
Additionally, air fighters are shown as actively countering ground threats to the helicopters, enhancing the survivability of the formation during risky passages. The team member stresses the high level of vigilance required, noting the aircraft’s high speed and the need to maintain very low altitude during rapid advances.
The same report mentions a personal note from the crew about interactions with local residents during missions. They observed that some Ukrainian civilians waved in support, and there were mentions of blessings described as being given by older community members. The crew member reflects that such responses can influence morale and that the presence in the airspace is perceived positively by some locals, contributing to a sense of purpose during sorties.
In a second release, the Ministry of Defense presents additional footage of Mi-35 multipurpose attack helicopters from the army aviation of the Western Military District. The video reiterates that recurring combat missions have resulted in the destruction of command posts and armored vehicles aligned with Ukrainian armed units, according to the ministry’s narration.