What Makes KA-52 A Nightmare For Ukraine’s Tanks

Emerging from the lineage of Russian rotary-wing engineering, the KA-52 Alligator (NATO designation Hokum-B), is a highly manoeuvrable helicopter that can destroy enemy armoured and unarmoured ground targets, tanks, low-speed aerial targets and personnel at the frontline and in tactical depth. Developed as a two-seat variant of the Ka-50 Hokum-A, the KA-52 stems from the Kamov family of aircraft, known for their distinctive co-axial rotor system. This innovative design negates the need for a tail rotor, conferring both aerodynamic and combat advantages, particularly in terms of reduced vulnerability to enemy fire. The introduction of a second crew member enabled a division of workload, with one pilot navigating and the other engaging with adversaries, thus optimizing the aircraft’s combat operations. The design of the KA-52 prioritizes protection. Its cockpit is armored to resist 23mm rounds. Its co-axial rotor design is notable not just for aerodynamic reasons but also for the redundancy