In 2026, helicopters have been at the center of various military and geopolitical events. Notable incidents include a failed Russian attempt to transport a Mi-2 on a pick-up truck, resulting in an overturn, and a tragic friendly fire event where a Russian Mi-8 was shot down by a Su-35, mistaken for a drone. Airspace violations have also occurred, with a Russian Mi-8 helicopter entering Polish airspace, leading to diplomatic tensions. On the battlefield, Ukrainian helicopters demonstrated expertise in drone interception, successfully engaging numerous threats. Additionally, Ukrainian forces made tactical strikes on Russian positions, highlighting the strategic value of helicopters in modern warfare.
What was the outcome of the Russian attempt to transport a Mi-2 helicopter by truck?
This attempt resulted in an overturn incident, where both the Mi-2 helicopter and the pick-up truck toppled. This was captured in a video, highlighting the risks of unconventional transportation methods for military equipment.
How did a Russian Mi-8 helicopter get shot down near Voronezh?
The incident occurred due to friendly fire when a Russian Su-35 fighter jet mistakenly identified the Mi-8 helicopter as a Ukrainian drone, resulting in its shootdown. This raised concerns about identification systems used in military operations.
What consequences followed the Russian Mi-8 helicopter violating Polish airspace?
The airspace violation led to heightened tensions between Russia and Poland. Polish forces were put on alert, and there were diplomatic calls for an apology. Such incidents underlie the fragile nature of international military relations.
How effective are Ukrainian helicopters in combat situations?
Ukrainian helicopters have proven highly effective in combat scenarios. They have been instrumental in intercepting drones, with skilled maneuvers allowing them to avoid threats and neutralize aerial targets efficiently, thereby supporting ground forces significantly.
What role do helicopters play in the current conflict in Ukraine?
Helicopters are crucial for tactical operations, acting as agile platforms for strikes on enemy positions and disabling drones. Their versatility and speed make them indispensable for reconnaissance and direct combat support in the ongoing conflict.
Has there been an increase in friendly fire incidents involving Russian helicopters?
Yes, reports indicate an increase in friendly fire incidents, with misidentifications leading to the downing of Russian aircraft, including helicopters. This underscores the need for improved communication and identification protocols within Russian military operations.
How have other countries responded to Russian helicopter violations?
Countries like Poland have responded by scrambling their fighter jets and placing their military on high alert. Diplomatic dialogues often follow such incidents, aiming to prevent escalation and ensure adherence to international airspace agreements.
What are the implications of helicopter crashes for crew safety?
Helicopter crashes, often resulting in crew fatalities, underscore the significant risks associated with military aviation. These incidents prompt reviews of safety protocols and technical standards to prevent future casualties and ensure the well-being of crew members.
News helicopter_
Residents of Kharkiv region welcome Ukrainian Mi-24 helicopter pilot with flags after combat mission: "It brought tears to my eyes". VIDEO In the Kharkiv region, local residents waving Ukrainian flags are welcoming a Mi-24 attack helicopter pilot returning from a mission in the Donetsk region. 33 031 22 Previously in trend: Air operations of AFU
Moment F7 "Litavr" interceptor drones were launched from Mi-8 helicopter to destroy Russian UAVs. VIDEO Footage has been published online showing a Ukrainian Mi-8 helicopter belonging to the Ukrainian Air Force launching F7 ‘Litavr’ interceptor drones to combat Russian drones. 6 356 12 Previously in trend: Air operations of AFU
Soldiers from 115th Brigade have struck Russian Mi-28 helicopter with drone in Belgorod region for second time in few days. VIDEO Soldiers from the ‘Pribultsi’ anti-aircraft missile battalion of the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ 115th Brigade have, for the second time in a few days, struck a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter using a drone in the Belgorod Oblast of the Russian Federation. 6 413 12 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
FPV drone operators from 115th SMB struck Russian Mi-28NM helicopter. VIDEO FPV drone operators from the Ukrainian Armed Forces’ 115th Separate Mechanised Brigade attacked a Russian Mi-28NM attack helicopter that was flying at low altitude over open terrain. 6 795 12 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment
Russians attempted to transport Mi-2 helicopter on pick-up truck, but overturned along with it. VIDEO A video has been posted online showing a failed attempt by Russians to transport a Mi-2 helicopter on the back of a pick-up truck. 9 104 26 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment The destruction of a Russian plane
Russian Su-35 fighter jet shoots down Mi-8 helicopter near Voronezh in friendly fire: mistaken for Ukrainian drone A Russian Mi-8 military transport helicopter was shot down on October 1 by a Russian Su-35 fighter jet, which mistook it for a Ukrainian drone. 3 898 21 Previously in trend: Military helicopter crashes in Russia
Military helicopter crashes in Russia’s Voronezh region: crew did not survive A military helicopter crashed in Russia’s Voronezh region. Three crew members were killed. 3 589 19 Previously in trend: Military helicopter crashes in Russia
If Russia apologizes, we won’t make big deal out of it – Sikorski on Mi-8 incident in Poland Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski called on Russia to apologize for the violation of the country's airspace by its Mi-8 helicopter. 11 141 66 Previously in trend: Airspace violation
Russian Mi-8 helicopter violated Polish airspace On 23 September, the Polish military recorded a violation of the state border by a Russian helicopter (Mi-8) flying from the Kaliningrad region. In response, Poland scrambled fighter jets and put its ground forces and equipment on alert. 4 467 15 Previously in trend: Russian provocations over the Baltics Airspace violation Russian provocations in Europe
Russian frigate fired signal flares at Danish helicopter: Sybiha claimed that Russia was attempting to destabilise Europe Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed solidarity with Denmark following an incident in which a Russian frigate fired two signal flares at a Danish helicopter. The Foreign Minister described the Russian military’s actions as provocative and unacceptable. 1 786 8 Previously in trend: Russian provocations in Europe
Russian ’Gerbera’ shot down from helicopter: enemy UAV crashed into field and exploded. VIDEO A video has been published online showing Defence Forces soldiers shooting down a Russian ‘Gerbera’ drone. 4 932 3 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian drones
Destruction of MiG-29 aircraft and Ka-27 helicopter confirmed. Enemy ammunition and logistics depots struck – General Staff On September 1 and during the night of September 2, 2026, units of Ukraine’s Defence Forces struck several military targets belonging to the Russian aggressor. 2 566 3 Previously in trend: Striking Russia
Mi-17 helicopter pilot manoeuvred to evade Russian FPV drone just few centimetres from tail rotor. VIDEO The pilot of a Ukrainian Mi-17 helicopter in the Donetsk sector swerved to avoid a Russian FPV drone just a few centimetres from the tail rotor. 38 005 20 Previously in trend: Situation in the Donetsk region Air operations of AFU
Ukrainian Mi-8 and Mi-24 helicopters intercept 14 Shahed and Gerbera drones in Kherson region. VIDEO Army Aviation crews of the Ground Forces and crews of the Air Force of Ukraine continue to demonstrate high effectiveness in neutralising enemy aerial targets. 3 762 15 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian drones
Russian Mi-28 was shot down by USF in skies over Belgorod region of Russian Federation, – Madyar. VIDEO Unmanned aerial systems struck a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter in the Belgorod Region of the Russian Federation. 10 982 52 Previously in trend: Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
Russian air defense shot down its own $16 million Ka-52 while hunting Ukrainian drones, - Forbes A Russian Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter was shot down by its own mobile air defense unit while on an anti-drone mission. According to preliminary reports, the crew was hunting Ukrainian drones when Russian forces, who were also searching for aerial targets, opened fire on it. 4 316 24 Previously in trend: Enemy losses
Crew of Mi-8 helicopter were killed whilst shooting down Russian drones in Poltava region. PHOTOS On 30 June 2026, whilst carrying out a combat mission in the Poltava region to intercept Russian drones, four crew members of a Mi-8 helicopter from the helicopter squadron of the 16th Separate Army Aviation Brigade "Brody" were killed. 13 603 26 Previously in trend: losses of Ukraine
Pilots of Mi-8MTV and Mi-8MTV-5 helicopters strike occupiers’ positions with unguided aerial rockets. VIDEO Pilots of Mi-8MTV and Mi-8MTV-5 helicopters of the Ukrainian Air Force filmed footage of combat work against enemy positions. 3 037 2 Previously in trend: Elimination of Russian occupying forces Air operations of AFU
Russian Mi-2 helicopter crashed whilst carrying out agricultural work in Kuban region On Wednesday, 24 June, a Mi-2 multi-purpose light helicopter crashed in the Krasnodar Krai of the Russian Federation. 1 506 6 Previously in trend: plane fell in Russia
New footage released of Mi-28 and Mi-17 helicopters destroyed in enemy rear. VIDEO Additional footage has been published online of the operation to destroy two Russian helicopters in the rear of the occupying forces, carried out on 29 April 2026. 7 510 7 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment Destruction of enemy’s helicopters SSU special operation Results of Unmanned Systems Forces units’ operations
Russian anti-sabotage boat hit in Kaspiysk, UAV control points and other enemy targets struck – General Staff On 17 May and overnight into 18 May 2026, units of Ukraine’s Defense Forces struck a number of important targets belonging to the Russian occupiers. 1 556 3 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment
A Ukrainian Mi-24 helicopter struck enemy positions with S-8 unguided missiles. VIDEO The Ukrainian Army Aviation continues to support ground units by delivering devastating strikes against enemy troop concentrations and military equipment. According to Censor.NET, a video has been published online showing footage of the combat operations carried out by the crew of a Mi-24 attack... 5 178 10 Previously in trend: AFU aviation
Defense Forces hit Orsknefteorgsintez oil refinery, Mi-28 and Mi-17 helicopters and other enemy targets, General Staff says On 29 April and overnight on 30 April, units of Ukraine’s Defense Forces struck important enemy targets. 2 518 7 Previously in trend: UAV attack on oil refinery of Russia Striking Russia
Defense Forces hit enemy Mi-28 and Mi-17 helicopters in Russia’s Voronezh Oblast. VIDEO Operators of the Unmanned Systems Forces (USF) hit two Russian military helicopters, a Mi-28 and a Mi-17, in Russia’s Voronezh Oblast, 150 km from the line of combat contact. 6 077 28 Previously in trend: Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
One of Mi-8 crews of Naval Forces of AFU shot down 12 "Shaheds" in 3 hours. VIDEO During the March 24 attack, a crew of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Navy's Mi-8 helicopter spent three hours carrying out a mission to counter enemy attack drones, destroying a significant number of aerial targets. 6 282 15 Previously in trend: Shooting down Shaheds Destruction of Russian drones
Zelenskyy awards soldiers of 59th Brigade of Unmanned Systems Forces who destroyed Russian Ka-52 helicopter with FPV drone President Volodymyr Zelenskyy awarded the Order for Courage, Second Class, to servicemen of the Unmanned Systems Forces who destroyed a Russian Ka-52 Alligator helicopter with an FPV drone in the Pokrovsk direction. 3 485 16 Previously in trend: Awarding awards to military Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
USF fighters destroyed occupiers’ Ka-52 with FPV drone: pilots were also "finished off" by drones. VIDEO USF troops shot down a Russian Ka-52 helicopter in the Donetsk region. 12 449 46 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
Soldiers of 59th SAB shot down Russian Ka-52 helicopter using FPV drone. VIDEO A rare instance has been recorded in the Pokrovsk sector where the occupiers’ expensive aviation equipment was destroyed using a relatively inexpensive drone. 9 692 22 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment Combat operations in the Pokrovsk direction
Navy shows destruction of Russian Ka-27: tried to land on "Syvash" drilling platform. VIDEO On the night of 5 March, the Ukrainian Navy and the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces struck enemy units located on the "Syvash" drilling platform in the Black Sea. As part of the operation, a Russian Ka-27 helicopter that attempted to land on the platform was also destroyed. 19 503 16 Previously in trend: Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
Russian Ka-27 destroyed over Black Sea, - Ukrainian Navy Defence forces destroyed a Russian Ka-27 anti-submarine helicopter over the Black Sea. 7 169 15 Previously in trend: Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
Russian air defense shoots down its Mi-8 military helicopter in Rostov region. Three crew members killed, - ASTRA. VIDEO A Russian Mi-8 military helicopter was shot down during air defense operations in the village of Dudki in the Rostov region, killing three crew members. 9 148 37 Previously in trend: Military helicopter crashes in Russia Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
Airstrike on occupiers in Kharkiv region: pair of Mi-24 helicopters strike enemy positions in area of 58th Brigade. VIDEO Ukrainian Army Aviation continues to support ground units by delivering fire strikes on concentrations of invaders` personnel and equipment. As reported by Censor.NET, an observation drone recorded the combat work of attack helicopters in the north of the Kharkiv region. 6 523 6 Previously in trend: AFU aviation
Enemy Ka-27 helicopter and three UAV control points destroyed, - General Staff Units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces continue to strike important military targets of the enemy. 3 735 5 Previously in trend: Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
Mi-24 helicopter crew killed during combat mission During a combat mission, the crew of an Mi-24 helicopter of the 11th Separate Army Aviation Brigade "Kherson" was killed. 12 733 35 Previously in trend: losses of Ukraine AFU aviation
Crew of Ukrainian Mi-8 helicopter with Minigun machine gun shot down enemy Shahed-136. VIDEO The Ukrainian Air Force is implementing new effective tactics to combat Iranian kamikaze drones, involving army aviation. According to Censor.NET, unique footage of the destruction of a Russian "shahid" directly from a helicopter has appeared online. 8 247 18 Previously in trend: Result of the work of the air force
Ukrainian crew of Mi-8 helicopter shot down Russian Shahed with machine gun fire. VIDEO A video has been published online showing a Ukrainian Mi-8 helicopter crew shooting down a Russian drone. 5 502 7 Previously in trend: Shooting down Shaheds
Mi-24 helicopter crash: Hero of Ukraine Oleksandr Shemet, who made last air breakthrough to Azovstal, killed. PHOTO The commander of the Mi-24 helicopter crew, which crashed while performing a combat mission on 17 December, was Oleksandr Shemet, a native of Chernihiv region and Hero of Ukraine. It was he who made the last air breakthrough to "Azovstal" in April 2022. 17 366 48 Previously in trend: losses of Ukraine AFU aviation
Mi-24 helicopter crew from 12th Separate Army Aviation Brigade killed on combat mission On December 17, while carrying out a combat mission to repel an enemy attack, the crew of a Ukrainian Mi-24 helicopter from the 12th Separate Army Aviation Brigade named after General-Khorunzhyi Viktor Pavlenko was killed. 10 424 29 Previously in trend: losses of Ukraine AFU aviation
Special Operations Forces shoot down Russian Mi-8 with drone in mid-air for first time. VIDEO For the first time, Special Operations Forces shot down a Russian Mi-8 helicopter in mid-air using a drone. 12 075 40 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment Drone industry
DIU "Prymary" unit destroys Ka-27 helicopter and Russian radars in Crimea. VIDEO Occupation forces in Crimea have again suffered serious losses - the special forces unit "Prymary" of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine carried out a successful operation on the territory of the temporarily occupied peninsula. 4 900 7 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment
Ukrainian forces shoot down Russian Shahed from Mi-8 helicopter. VIDEO A video posted on social media shows a Russian Shahed kamikaze drone being shot down. 4 454 20 Previously in trend: Shooting down Shaheds Drone shootings over Ukraine
Total combat losses of Russian Federation since start of war - about 1,153,180 people (+1,020 per day), 11,342 tanks, 34,366 artillery systems, 23,553 armoured combat vehicles. INFOGRAPHIC Since the start of the full-scale invasion by the Russian Federation, the Ukrainian Defence Forces have eliminated 1,153,180 Russian occupiers. 4 579 26 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment Elimination of Russian occupying forces
Ukrainian helicopter crew destroys enemy "Shahed" strike drone in mid-air. VIDEO Ukrainian pilots have once again demonstrated their skill and composure in aerial combat. 6 380 15 Previously in trend: AFU aviation
Russian Ka-226 helicopter crashes in Dagestan, killing four. VIDEO In the Republic of Dagestan (Russian Federation), a Ka-226 helicopter carrying tourists crashed into a house. According to preliminary data, four people were killed. 5 393 17 Previously in trend: Military helicopter crashes in Russia
Russia has shot down 17 of its own airplanes and helicopters with "friendly fire" since beginning of war, - Russian media. INFOGRAPHICS The day before, Russian propaganda channels reported the loss of a Ka-52 attack helicopter along with its crew. The "friendly fire" incident occurred during the repulsion of an attack by Ukrainian drones on Russian territory. 2 485 7 Previously in trend: The Russians shot down their plane
Z-channels complain about loss of Ka-52 helicopter: two pilots killed Z-channels report the loss of a Russian Ka-52 helicopter with a crew. 10 680 20 Previously in trend: Destruction of enemy’s helicopters
Crew of Mi-8 helicopter destroys Russian "Shahed-136" kamikaze drone. VIDEO A video has been published online showing a fragment of the combat work of the Ukrainian crew of a Mi-8 helicopter during a drone attack on Ukraine. 5 325 10
Unmanned Systems Forces destroyed Russian Mi-8 helicopter using FPV drone, - Madyar (clarified). VIDEO Pilots of the 59th Brigade of the Unmanned Systems Forces destroyed a Russian Mi-28 helicopter using an FPV drone. 13 591 42 Previously in trend: Destruction of Russian equipment
Page 1 of 8
more news