The MIL-Mi-24 Hind is a Soviet-era attack helicopter that has seen extensive service around the world. Developed by Mil Moscow Helicopter Plant, the Mi-24 was designed to fulfill multiple roles, including assault, transport, and close air support for ground forces.
Development and History
- Origins: The design of the Mi-24 began in the early 1960s, with the goal to create a heavy gunship for air support. It was meant to combine the capabilities of both a transport helicopter and a dedicated gunship.
- First Flight: The Mi-24 made its first flight in September 1969.
- Introduction to Service: It entered service with the Soviet Air Force in 1972.
- Designation: NATO assigned the reporting name "Hind" to the Mi-24.
Design Features
- Armament: The Mi-24 is equipped with a wide array of armaments, including:
- YakB-12.7mm four-barreled machine gun
- 57mm rocket pods
- Anti-tank guided missiles like the 9M17 Falanga and 9K114 Shturm
- Free-flight unguided rockets
- Defensive Measures: Includes flare dispensers to counter infrared homing missiles, and some variants are equipped with Electronic Countermeasures (ECM).
- Capacity: Can carry up to eight troops or a combination of troops and cargo internally. It also features external weapon stations.
Operational History
- The Mi-24 Hind has been used in numerous conflicts, including:
- It has also been exported to over 50 countries, with many operators customizing the helicopter for their specific needs.
Variants
- Mi-24A: Initial production variant with basic armament.
- Mi-24D: Improved version with better navigation and radar-warning systems.
- Mi-24V (Hind-E): Upgraded with a new nose-mounted turret, improved avionics, and the ability to fire 9K114 Shturm anti-tank missiles.
- Mi-24P (Hind-F): Focused on air-to-ground attack with a 30mm cannon.
- Mi-35: A modernized version of the Mi-24V, with updated avionics and weapons systems, marketed for export.
Notable Features
- Step-Ladder Landing Gear: Allows the helicopter to take off from unprepared fields.
- Survivability: The Hind has a reputation for being rugged and capable of taking significant damage while still returning to base.
- Versatility: Its dual role capability as both an assault and transport helicopter makes it unique among attack helicopters.
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