Article Posted on : - Jun 06, 2017

The Ka-52 Alligator is a next-generation reconnaissance and combat helicopter designed to destroy tanks, armoured and non-armoured ground targets, and enemy troops and helicopters both on the front line and in tactical reserves. Photo: Russian Helicopters.

ARSENIEV, PRIMORSKY KRAI (TASS-DEFENCE): Russia's Ministry of Defence (MoD) will get 14 Ka-52 helicopters with 50 such helocraft to be delivered by 2020, Deputy Defence Minister Yuri Borisov said.

"This year we are to take the delivery of 14 Ka-52s under the State defence order (Gosoboronzakaz). The actual contract should be accomplished, (it envisions the delivery of) 50 helocraft by 2020," Borisov said during his visit to the Progress aviation plant.

The official pointed out that it was necessary to check the readiness of the enterprise to accomplish the orders under the new state armament program for 2018-2025 that was sent to Russia's government for approval.

According to Borisov, the Ka-52 Alligator combat-reconnaissance helicopters may be upgraded with regard for their usage in Syria. "We have several requests following the practical work in Syria, we have discussed the modernisation issues with the developers of the main components in order to increase the effectiveness of the helicopter," the official said.

Borisov said that the Ka-52 had shown an excellent performance in Syria. "The works with the new Vikhr guided missile have been conducted and the results are positive in terms of effectiveness. However, the perfection has no limits; therefore, we have the requests regarding the improving of the accuracy range. We have discussed these issues with the industry and have planned the ways of solution," he pointed out.

Russia's MoD would consider the acquisition of the newest Ka-62 utility helicopters, Borisov said. "If this aircraft flies and shows good flight performance, it will find its place. We will consider (the issue)," the official added.