Mi-28UB makes first flight tests with Russian Air Force pilots.

Mi-28UB helicopters of the Russian Southern Military District made the first test flights in Krasnodar region and completed them successfully, the Black Sea fleet said.

A Russian Helicopters Mi-28UB combat helicopter
(Credit: Russian Helicopters/Eric Romanenko)

"Helicopter pilots of the Southern Military District completed the first controlling flights of the latest Mi-28UB rotorcraft at an airfield in Krasnodar region. Theoretical classes were held with the pilots before the flights. They passed exams on safety requirements and control of the helicopters in various conditions," it said.

The pilots trained takeoff and landing and flights at an altitude of up to 1000 meters, checked the piloting and maneuvering characteristics at various speed, the operation of units and mechanisms under load and overload. The next stage will include training missions at ranges in Krasnodar.

Mi-28UB is a combat training modification of Mi-28N helicopter gunships. Its design began in 2010. Mi-28UB is distinguished by dual control system which allows operating the craft from the commander’s and second pilot’s cockpit. It provides for training of military pilots who need flight time on Mi-28N. Besides, the second pilot can fly the helicopter in case of an emergency in combat conditions. The helicopter has a breakdown imitation panel to model malfunctions and improve the skills in a crisis situation.

Mi-28UB has upgraded integrated onboard electronic equipment. It provides for efficient search, detection, identification and destruction of air and ground targets. The necessary ergonomics of the crew seats are ensured by a change in the helicopter fuselage. Mi-28UB has an expanded cockpit, bigger space of armored windscreen and better view from the second pilot’s seat. The latest onboard defense complex ensures higher survivability of Mi-28UB.