Ukrainian forces storm Kursk Oblast, destroy prized Ka‑52 helicopter
Armed Forces of Ukraine entered Kursk Oblast on Tuesday. Russians are suffering losses; media report casualties, injured individuals, and soldiers taken prisoner. Ukrainians have also allegedly destroyed heavy equipment, including a Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter. The value of one such machine is up to £13 million.
Journalists covering the war in Ukraine reported the entry into Kursk Oblast in Russia from the morning. The information about the attack was also provided by acting regional governor Alexei Smirnov.
According to Mateusz Lachowski, a TVP correspondent in Ukraine, Ukrainians attacked the town of Sudzha from two sides. Artillery and drones were used for the attack. Ukrainians aim to force the Russians to withdraw some forces from the front lines, thus relieving their units in Donetsk Oblast.
From the morning, journalists have been reporting on losses in the Russian military. According to the "Moscow Times," three civilians were killed, and 13 people, including five children, were injured. Ukrainian soldiers have also reportedly captured enemy military personnel, including two conscripts who were identified. According to Russian media, up to 90% of residents of border regions have left their homes and moved to temporary shelters.
Social media also contains information about the lost military equipment. This mainly concerns the Russian Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter. "The Insider" adds that the crew of the machine died.
According to defence24.pl, the Russians eagerly showcased the helicopter before the war in Ukraine. The Kremlin dubbed it the "best combat helicopter in the world." It is considered the newest in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. Ukrainian "Pravda" reported a year ago that the value of one machine is up to £13 million.
The helicopter mentioned is equipped with the 9K121 Vikhr missile, which is guided by a laser-guided I-251V Shkval targeting system. It can carry up to 12 units, allowing it to attack targets from 5 to 11 kilometres. The businessinsider.com portal reports that it is capable of eliminating tanks.
On the front line, due to ground threats, Russians use "Alligators" very cautiously, away from the first line of the front. But they had no choice this time, and another machine went up in smoke.
