The Russian Ka-52 Alligator is one of the best reconnaissance and attack helicopters in the world today.
The rotary-winged vehicle developed by Kamov JSC successfully destroys armored vehicles and enemy manpower during the NMD. In addition, the Alligator proved itself during the Syrian operation, where the helicopter, in fact, received its first baptism of fire.
It should be noted that the Ka-52 is a further development of the legendary Ka-50 "Black Shark", which without exaggeration can be called the most high-tech helicopter of its time.
One of the main distinguishing features of the helicopter was its single seat. The ability to fully control the rotorcraft by one pilot became a real challenge for Soviet engineers.
Nevertheless, the designers brilliantly coped with the task. A huge amount (at that time) of on-board electronics was installed on the Ka-50. There were four computers in the Black Shark alone, which allowed the pilot to simultaneously control the machine and perform combat missions.
But that's not all. The Ka-50 became the world's first combat helicopter with an ejection system. By the way, it has been preserved in the modern "Alligator".
Finally, the Black Shark's wide range of weapons was also impressive. The Ka-50 received a 30-mm 2A42 cannon, and was also capable of carrying 12 Vikhr ATGMs and a container with NARs, additional guns or air bombs.
The only combat use of the Black Shark in armed conflicts was the Second Chechen War. The rotorcraft made 49 sorties.
A total of 17 Ka-50s were produced. The last helicopter was produced in 2009. Then the release of his successor Ka-52 "Alligator" began.
By the way, according to some reports, the succession of the latter reaches 85%. The Alligator inherited from its predecessor the ejection system, the coaxial propeller scheme, the power plant, the wing, the plumage, part of the armament (in particular, the 2A42 cannon and the Whirlwind ATGM), as well as the middle and tail parts of the fuselage.
Meanwhile, the Ka-52 is flown by two crew members. In addition, the rotorcraft received completely new electronics, including modern electronic protection and aiming systems.
About stories creation of the Ka-50 "Black Shark":