Ukrainian drones hit Mi-28 and Mi-17 helicopters in Russia's Voronezh region
Illustrative photo: Ukraine destroys Russian Mi-28 helicopter (Russian media)
Ukrainian troops used drones to attack Russian Mi-28 and Mi-17 combat helicopters based in Russia’s Voronezh region, according to the commander of Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, Robert "Madyar" Brovdi.
"Birds of the Unmanned system forces hunted and hit two enemy helicopters — a Mi-28 and a Mi-17 — in Russia’s Voronezh region, about 150 km from the line of contact," he said.
According to Madyar, the strike targeted a landing site where four Mi-28 and Mi-17 helicopters were based. They were refueled there and underwent between-flight maintenance checks.
He added that the operation was carried out by combined crews from the 429th Separate Achilles Brigade and the 43rd Separate Artillery Brigade, and was developed with the involvement of the Special Operations Center A.
"The strike hit the rear central section of the engine compartment, avoiding the main rotor blades," the commander clarified.
As a result of the attack, at least one helicopter maintenance specialist was also killed.
Mi-28 and Mi-17
The Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter is designed to destroy armored vehicles, manpower, and low-flying aerial targets. It is equipped with a cannon and guided missiles and can operate at any time of day and in difficult weather conditions.
The Mi-28 is actively used by Russian forces during combat operations, including to support ground troops.
Meanwhile, the Mi-17 transport helicopter is used to carry personnel, cargo, and conduct evacuation missions.
It is an export variant of the Mi-8 family and is widely used in both military and civilian roles. The Mi-17 is known for its versatility and ability to operate in a range of climates.
Unique operation of the Unmanned Systems Forces
In September last year, Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces used an FPV drone to shoot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter.
The drone struck the helicopter while it was in the air.
