Ukrainian military destroys enemy helicopters on Russian territory, media reports

There is currently no official confirmation of such an attack.

Ukraine has struck the Oryol region of the Russian Federation using long-range kamikaze drones . In particular, the Pugachevka helicopter airfield of the Russian Aerospace Forces was attacked. This was reported by the Telegram channel “Spy Dossier”.

The strike was recorded on Friday, February 20, and resulted in the destruction of a multi-purpose Mi-8 helicopter (tail number 53), which belonged to the 319th separate helicopter regiment, based in Chernihivka (Primorye Krai, Russian Federation).

In addition, a Ka-52 “Alligator” attack helicopter (tail number 18) was destroyed. It belonged to the 16th Army Aviation Brigade, located in Zernograd (Rostov Region).

What is known about such aircraft?

As Oboz.ua writes , most likely, the Ukrainian military was able to destroy the Russian main modernized version of the Mi-8 multi-purpose helicopter – the AMTSh model, also known as the “Terminator”.

“The helicopter can carry guided anti-tank missiles “Sturm” or “Attack”, unguided S-8 missiles, as well as 23-mm cannons in containers. It is equipped with screen-exhaust devices to reduce infrared visibility and systems for shooting false thermal targets,” the material noted.

In addition, the Mi-8AMTSh can carry up to 36 troops or up to four tons of cargo inside the cabin or on an external suspension.

“At the same time, the Ka-52 Alligator is the main Russian attack helicopter, which is a deep modernization of the single-seat Ka-50 Black Shark. By the end of 2025 – beginning of 2026, about 70 machines are in combat readiness with the Russian troops,” the publication added.

The helicopter is equipped with a 30mm 2A42 automatic cannon, Vikhor anti-tank missiles, S-13 unguided air missiles, and can carry light bombs weighing up to two tons.

(c)UNIAN 2026