Ukrainian strike obliterates Russian helicopters with 'disabled' HIMARS
As a result of a precise strike on the launch point in the Belgorod region, Ukrainians managed to eliminate four Russian helicopters. According to Defense Express analysts, the attack was carried out using HIMARS artillery, which, according to Kremlin propaganda, had recently been "disabled."
The Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine published a short video showing the moment of the attack. However, missile forces and the military intelligence HUR also played a role, responsible for reconnaissance using an unmanned aerial vehicle. The identified Russian targets were four helicopters—two Ka-52s and two Mi-8s.
Attack on Russian helicopters
The shelling was carried out using American HIMARS. As specified by Defense Express analysts, the Ukrainians used GMLRS M30A1 rockets (or the advanced M30A2). They have a range of about 80 kilometres and non-standard warheads containing tungsten elements. They detonate directly above the target, demonstrating very high effectiveness.
"All helicopters were destroyed by rocket strikes in the enemy's rear, where the opponent had created a launch point for aviation - a masked position for the quick relocation of aircraft or surprise attacks on Ukrainian security and defence forces," stated the Special Operations Forces of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in a communiqué on Telegram.
Russians believed in disabled HIMARS
The OSINT community (open-source intelligence) has already established that Russian helicopters were located east of the city of Ivnoye, near the administrative border of the Kursk region, and about 55 kilometres from the Ukrainian border.
Defense Express analysts point out that it is puzzling why the Russians decided to deploy valuable helicopters in the danger zone. They suggest that perhaps they believed their own propaganda about the "disabling of HIMARS" after recent moves by Donald Trump or underestimated Ukrainian intelligence and combat capabilities, assuming that a short stay (e.g., for refuelling and rearming) near the border would not have consequences.
While the Mi-8 is an older helicopter, the Ka-52 was first flown in 1997. The value of each such Russian attack helicopter, reaching flight speeds of up to 300 km/h and capable of carrying various types of underwing armaments, is estimated at about 15-16 million dollars.
