Kathrine Frich
Russian air defense units have accidentally destroyed one of their own Ka-52 “Alligator” attack helicopters while responding to a drone threat inside Russian territory.
The incident adds to a growing list of similar “friendly fire” losses suffered by Moscow’s forces since the start of the war in Ukraine.
Mistaken for a drone
According to the channels Z Fighterbomber, Aviahub and Voevoda Veshchaiet, the helicopter was hit during a counter-drone operation.
The Insider reported that this marks at least the fifth known case of a Russian helicopter being downed by its own side.
The Telegram channel Pozivnoi Katsman stated that the Ka-52M was shot down “not without personnel losses” and suggested the strike may have been carried out by a Russian fighter jet.
“It is known that they confused it with a UAV. It was probably nearby, but they simply hit another one. The incident and its causes are being investigated,” the post said.
Growing pattern
This is not the first time Russian forces have destroyed their own aircraft.
In June 2024, air defense systems near Anapa shot down a Ka-29 helicopter belonging to the Russian Aerospace Forces, killing all four crew members.
According to data compiled by The Insider, Russia has lost at least 17 aircraft to friendly fire since the full-scale invasion began.
The tally includes 12 planes and 5 helicopters. Among them are four Su-35s, three Su-34s, two A-50s, and single units of the Su-27, Su-30 and Il-22. Helicopter losses include two Ka-52s, Ka-29s, Mi-24s and Mi-8s.
Embarrassment for the military
The Ka-52 “Alligator,” produced by the Kamov Design Bureau, is one of Russia’s most advanced combat helicopters and a key weapon in its battlefield operations in Ukraine.
The destruction of another such aircraft by Russian forces underscores continued problems in coordination and identification across the country’s air defense network.
Military analysts say these incidents reflect poor communication and the pressure on Russian defenses as Ukraine intensifies drone strikes deep inside Russian territory.
The growing number of friendly fire cases has become a recurring embarrassment for the Kremlin’s military leadership.
Sources: Digi24, The Insider, Reuters, BBC, AP
This article is made and published by Kathrine Frich, who may have used AI in the preparation
