Russian Mi-28 Helicopters Deploy New Cruise Missile Capability
Russia's Mi-28NM Havoc attack helicopters have begun firing cruise missiles, marking a significant expansion in their operational capabilities.
In a notable development on the Ukrainian front, Russian Mi-28NM Havoc attack helicopters have started deploying cruise missiles, signaling a strategic shift in their aerial warfare tactics. This new capability allows the Mi-28NM to launch missiles from a distance, potentially from well behind the front lines and even from within Russian airspace, offering enhanced safety and flexibility for the pilots.
The missiles in question are reportedly either the S8000 Banderol or the Dan-T, both of which are known for their impressive range of around 310 miles. This extended reach means that the Mi-28NM can strike targets far from its immediate vicinity, making it a formidable asset in the ongoing conflict. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of these missiles—approximately 35% less expensive than the Banderol—makes them an attractive choice for Russia's military operations.
The Banderol, one of the possible missiles used, stands out due to its distinctive design. It measures roughly 16.4 feet in length and features pop-out wings, providing stability during flight. Its turbojet engine propels it over long distances, carrying a warhead weighing approximately 110 pounds. This combination of features makes the Banderol a potent weapon in the arsenal of the Mi-28NM.
Russia's Defense Ministry recently showcased this capability through footage of a Mi-28NM launching what is believed to be a Banderol or Dan-T missile in Ukraine. The missile was carried on a pylon beneath the helicopter's left-side stub wing, highlighting the adaptability of the Mi-28NM to carry and deploy such weaponry. This deployment marks a significant step forward in the integration of cruise missiles into the Mi-28NM's operational profile.
Despite the loss of 21 Mi-28s since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia continues to explore innovative ways to enhance the effectiveness of these helicopters. The ability to launch cruise missiles from a distance not only increases the survivability of the Mi-28NM but also extends the range of its combat operations. Furthermore, the Dan-T missile, with its versatility in being launched from ground launchers, Mi-28 helicopters, and various fighter jets, adds another layer of strategic depth to Russia's military maneuvers.
Russia's plans to produce approximately 10,000 Dan-T missiles in 2027 indicate a commitment to expanding this capability further. This production goal underscores the importance of the Mi-28NM and its cruise missile capacity in future military operations, both in Ukraine and potentially in other theaters of conflict.
What We Know
- - Russian Mi-28NM Havoc attack helicopters are now firing cruise missiles. 12
- - The missile is either the S8000 Banderol or the Dan-T, with a range of around 310 miles. 12
- - The missile is carried on a pylon beneath the helicopter's left-side stub wing. 1
- - The Banderol has a length of approximately 16.4 feet, pop-out wings, and a turbojet engine. 1
- - The Banderol carries a warhead weighing about 110 pounds. 1
- - Russia is exploring the use of the Mi-28NM as a launch platform for cruise missiles. 1
- - The Mi-28NM can launch missiles from well behind the front lines. 2
- - Russia plans to produce approximately 10,000 Dan-T missiles in 2027. 2
- - The Dan-T can be launched from ground launchers, Mi-28 helicopters, and several types of fighter jets. 2
What Remains Unclear
Trust Score report
Likely accurate — probability of truth 69%, weighted across 16 claims from 2 independent outlets.
- likely Russian Mi-28NM Havoc attack helicopters are firing cruise missiles. (82%)
- likely The Dan-T has a range of around 310 miles and costs approximately 35% less than the Banderol. (82%)
- likely The missile is carried on a pylon beneath the helicopter's left-side stub wing. (70%)
- likely The missile could be either the S8000 Banderol or the Dan-T. (70%)
- likely The Banderol is approximately 16.4 feet long, has pop-out wings, and is powered by a small turbojet engine. (70%)
- likely The Banderol has a range of up to 310 miles and carries a warhead weighing approximately 110 pounds. (70%)
- likely Russia is exploring the use of the Mi-28NM as a launch platform for its cruise missiles. (70%)
- likely The Mi-28NM can launch the missiles from well away from the intended target, potentially from across the border while remaining in Russian airspace. (70%)
- likely Russia has lost 21 Mi-28s since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. (70%)
- likely Russia's Defense Ministry released footage of a Mi-28NM attack helicopter launching a Banderol or Dan-T cruise missile in Ukraine. (66%)
- likely The Mi-28NM launched the missile from a pylon under its stub wing. (66%)
- likely The missile is described as a small, low-cost cruise missile. (66%)
- likely The Mi-28NM can launch the missile from well behind the front lines. (66%)
- likely Russia plans to produce approximately 10,000 Dan-T missiles in 2027. (66%)
- likely The Dan-T missile can be launched from ground launchers, Mi-28 helicopters, and several types of fighter jets. (66%)
- unverified The Banderol or Dan-T missile has a range of up to 500 km. (46%)
Sources
- The War Zone — Russian Mi-28 Attack Helicopters Are Now Firing Cruise Missiles
https://www.twz.com/air/russian-mi-28-attack-helicopter-fires-cruise-missile - Defence Blog — Russia shows Mi-28 helicopter launching low-cost cruise missiles
https://defence-blog.com/russia-shows-mi-28-helicopter-launching-low-cost-cruise-missiles/