A Ukrainian first-person-view (FPV) drone reportedly struck a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter over Russia’s Kursk region on August 6, according to sources within the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU). The Kyiv Post and Kyiv Independent both reported that the SBU Special Operations Center’s M2 unit executed this operation.
Footage of the incident began circulating on social media on August 6 and was later shared by Ukrainian activist Serhii Sternenko. The video, verified by sources in the SBU, purportedly shows the drone hitting the helicopter’s tail rotor. The SBU source described the operation as “a unique special operation in military history.”
🇺🇦 #Ukraine: The Ukrainian military has released footage of an FPV drone striking a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter in midair. The strike took place over Russia’s Kursk region, possibly marking the first time an FPV drone has downed a helicopter in flight. pic.twitter.com/eoiSpiKCAh
— POPULAR FRONT (@PopularFront_) August 7, 2024
This incident represents a potential first in modern warfare where an FPV drone has successfully engaged and damaged an enemy helicopter mid-air. Ukrainian forces have increasingly utilized these drones, deploying more than 100,000 explosive FPV drones monthly along the extensive 700-mile front line against Russian forces. These drones target armored vehicles, exposed infantry, and artillery positions.
The immediate aftermath of the helicopter remains unclear from the video. While sources claimed the helicopter was shot down, there is no visual confirmation of its final condition.
The incident underscores the growing sophistication and skill of Ukrainian drone operators, who have been honing their abilities to target high-speed, high-altitude aircraft.
Russian military bloggers reported that the helicopter managed to land after the strike and that the crew survived, although these claims have not been independently verified. Moscow’s defense ministry stated that it had deployed additional troops and aviation units to the Kursk region following a reported raid by Ukrainian units.
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