Rating of combat helicopters. The best modern combat helicopters

In this article we will discuss the best combat helicopters in the world, compiling the TOP 10 most combat-ready, maneuverable and high-speed machines that have repeatedly proven their superiority on the battlefield.

A combat helicopter is an air combat unit with high firepower, the main tasks of which are the destruction of ground targets, providing cover for ground forces and disabling enemy armored vehicles.

Let's look at our list.

Tenth place

Our list of “The Best Helicopters in the World” opens with the first Chinese attack combat helicopter, the Z-10, which was adopted by the Chinese army in 2009.

The armament of this helicopter is a 30-mm machine gun mount, HJ-9 guided anti-tank missiles or the recently upgraded HJ-10. In addition to this, the helicopter is equipped with a unit of aviation unguided missiles and a TU-90 rocket launcher, which is designed to destroy air targets.

The vehicle's cabin is represented by two stages, the first contains the gunner, and the second contains the pilot.

Ninth place

Our TOP 10 best helicopters in the world continues with the Mi-24, which is equipped with a cargo cabin that can easily accommodate eight Air Force soldiers.

The vehicle has high mobility, flight speed is 335 km/h, which is achieved thanks to the unusual design of the wings.

The machine itself is universal; various military weapons can be installed on the helicopter, it all depends on the task at hand.

The standard set of weapons is a GUV-1 machine gun mobile unit with an A-12.7 machine gun (number of rounds - 900 pieces), a S-5 NURS unit with a set of UB-32A NARs and 4 9M17 ATGMs, borrowed from the Phalanx anti-tank gun M."

Eighth place

The AH-2 Rooivalk confidently takes eighth place in the list of “Best Helicopters in the World”; translated from English the name means “red kestrel”.

The maximum speed of the car is 278 km/h.

Guns mounted on a combat vehicle:

• F-2 gun, 700 rounds of ammunition, caliber 20 x 139 mm.
• Mokopa ZT-6 air-to-ground missiles (8-16 pieces).
• Air-to-air missiles: Mistral (4 pieces).
• Unguided missiles FFAr.

Seventh place

Our top list of the best helicopters in the world continues with the American AH-1W, the so-called “Super Cobra”.

Unlike its classmates, the car has two engines with a power of 1285 kW. each, maximum - 282 km/h.

The gun mounted on the vehicle does not stand out in any way, a 20-mm cannon with a capacity of 750 rounds, air-to-ground and air-to-air. In addition to this, a complex of unguided missiles has been installed.

Sixth place

The T129/A129 helicopter, jointly created by Italy and Turkey, took sixth place in the list of “The Best Military Helicopters in the World.” It was the first combat vehicle entirely created in Western Europe.

The maximum developed speed of the vehicle is 250 km/h, the installed Royal-Royce engine, the take-off power of which is 881 hp. pp., developed by the Italian company "Agusta".

The machine guns with which the helicopter is equipped have a caliber of 2 x 7.62 or 12.7 mm.

Like all its brothers, the vehicle is equipped with a complex of anti-tank and anti-aircraft missiles.

Fifth place

The next place is occupied by the American attack aircraft AH-1Z.

The vehicle has good handling and is one of the first in terms of firing accuracy. The three-barreled cannon, whose caliber is 20 mm, is excellent for destroying ground targets.

In addition to conventional guided and unguided rocket launchers, cannon containers have been added to the combat arsenal. It is also possible to install 4 TOW ATGMs.

Number of engines - two, brand - AH-1S (-P) (Production). The power of one is 1285 kW.

The helicopter is in service with countries such as the USA, Iran, Thailand, Turkey, and China.

Fourth place

In front of the leaders of the list is an attack aircraft created by German-French engineers - the Eurocopter Tiger.

It is in service with countries such as Germany, Spain, France and Australia.

Compared to its classmates, the car has better camouflage, and the noise emitted while in motion is reduced to a minimum.

The engines installed on the attack aircraft have a power of 1303 hp. With. each, and the maximum flight speed is 278 km/h.

The gun is a cannon with a caliber of 30 mm; there are also 4 mounting points for various types of rocket launchers. In addition, the helicopter can be equipped with 12.7 mm machine guns; each magazine holds 250 rounds.

Third place

The list of leaders of the “Best Helicopters in the World” opens with the Russian development of the Mi-28-N, which received the nickname “Devastator”.

This model is an in-depth modification of the Mi-28 helicopter. The maneuverability and complexity of the aerial maneuvers performed in flight make the attack aircraft difficult to reach. For example, the so-called Immelmann roll can be performed at a speed of 100 km/h.

All the most necessary and vital components are duplicated and located in different parts of the helicopter, which helps ensure the vehicle maximum survivability during combat operations.

The engine of the machine VK2500 has a power of 2200 hp. s., maximum speed 300 km/h.

The gun with which the helicopter is equipped has a caliber of 30 mm, and the helicopter is also equipped with a complex of guided missiles and air-to-air missiles.

Second place

Before you find out the best helicopter in the world, let's discuss the car that is in second place.

The AH-64 Apache is an American attack helicopter that has proven itself only from the best side during deployment. Its combat power is one of the best among helicopters of all time, this model is universal in its class.

In combat conditions, being in various weather conditions, the vehicle performed the most difficult combat missions.

The helicopter is equipped with 16 rocket launchers of various calibers and purposes. The machine gun has a caliber of 70 mm, which allows it to easily hit many lightly armored targets.

The engines have a power of 1890 hp. With. each, engine brand - AH-64A+/D.

First place

The Ka-50/52 is the best helicopter in the world, made in Russia. He received the nickname “Black Shark” because of his extraordinary speed of movement, threatening shape, and the main trump card of the machine is its firepower, which is incomparable with any similar indicator of other helicopters in the world.

This model is a single-seat assault attack helicopter, into the creation of which a lot of effort has been invested. The main task of the designers was to develop the best speed and maneuverability; the helicopter is the smallest in size in its class, thanks to which it has the highest level of camouflage and is able to quickly change its location.

The Ka-50/52 has a maximum speed of 310 km/h, which is on average 20-30 km more than other vehicles on our list. Engine power is 2400 hp. s., its brand is TV3-117VMA.

The maximum weight of weapons that a helicopter can carry in one battle is two tons.

The gun is a 30 mm caliber cannon; the pilot has the ability to quickly switch between high-explosive fragmentation and armor-piercing types of shells. You can also adjust the firing rate from 350 to 550 rounds per minute. The helicopter is equipped with six pieces on each side.

It is possible to carry Kh-25 (air-to-air) and R-73 (air-to-air, homing) missiles.

Today, the Ka-50/52 remains 100% the leader among combat attack helicopters.

Conclusion

The list of “The Best Helicopters in the World” has ended, but we can say with confidence that our rating includes the best helicopters that have been tested by time and have been used in combat more than once.

The military industry does not stand still, perhaps new, more modernized helicopters are already rushing to replace the “veterans,” but all the attack aircraft that were mentioned today have already left their mark on history.

The helicopter is today the most effective means used for logistics, military operations and rescue operations. From the first in World War II through the Vietnam War to the present day, the best helicopters have helped change the course of events on the battlefield. Here are the top ten combat helicopters in the world. Each is characterized by features of electronic equipment, speed characteristics, and firepower. The list of the fastest helicopters and advanced jet fighters is also of interest. This is a rating of the best combat helicopters in the world.

The Z-10 attack helicopter was introduced into service with the Chinese Army in 2008-2009. The Z-10 has the configuration of a conventional heavily armed helicopter, with a narrow fuselage and a stepped two-seat cockpit. The gunner is on the front panel and the pilot is on the rear panel. The Z-10's armament could consist of a 30 mm machine gun mount, HJ-9 anti-tank guided missiles (comparable to the TOW-2A), the newly developed HJ-10 anti-tank missiles (comparable to the AGM-114 Hellfire) and the TY-90 air-to-air missile -air". It also carries a unit of unguided aircraft missiles.

The Mi-24 is a specialized rotary-wing combat vehicle, with a cargo compartment that can accommodate eight troops. The Mi-24 became the first Russian helicopter introduced into the Russian Air Force as an attack transport. It is a close analogue of the American AH-64 Apache, but unlike this and other Western attack helicopters, it can carry up to 8 paratroopers.

8. AH-2 Rooivalk

Denel Rooivalk is a South African attack helicopter manufactured by Denel. Rooivalk means "red kestrel" in Afrikaans. The South African Air Force operates only 12 AH-2 Rooivalk helicopters. Although the helicopter looks updated, the production uses the same engine and main rotor as the French Aerospatiale Puma helicopter.

7. AH-1W "Super Cobra"

The Bell AH-1 Super Cobra is a twin-engine superior attack helicopter descended from the US Army's AH-1 Cobra helicopter. The Cobra family includes the AH-1J Sea Cobra, the AH-1T updated Sea Cobra, and the AH-1W Super Cobra.

6. A-129/T-129 (Italy/Türkiye)

The Agusta A129 Mongoose is an Italian attack helicopter originally designed and manufactured by Agusta. It was the first attack helicopter designed and produced exclusively in Western Europe. The Agusta Westland T-129 ATAK is a modified version of the A129 produced by Turkey Aerospace Industries (TAI), in partnership with Agusta Westland.

5. AH-1Z "Viper"

Spacious. Universal. Multipurpose. The latest generation of impact technology. The Bell AH-1Z "Viper" is a twin-engine attack helicopter based on the AH-1W "Super Cobra" developed for the US Navy. It features four-blade propellers, a composite main rotor and rudder, modern engines and an improved sighting system. The AH-1Z is part of the H-1 modernization program. It is also called "Zulu Cobra" in another variant.

4. Eurocopter Tiger

The Eurocopter Tiger is an attack helicopter produced by the Eurocopter consortium. In Germany, France and Spain it is known as the "Tiger". It is powered by two MTU Turbomeca Rolls-Royce MTR390 turboshaft engines.

3. Mi-28H Havoc (Russia)

The Mi-28H (NATO version Havoc, translated as “devastator”) is a Russian anti-tank attack helicopter, operating in all weather conditions, at any time of day or night, two-seat. This specialized combat helicopter is better optimized and designed for combat purposes than the Mi-24. It carries a single machine gun mount in the nose, as well as additional payloads carried on pylons under the wings.

2. Kamov KA-50/KA-52

The Ka-50 "Black Shark" is a single-seat Russian attack helicopter, with a distinctive coaxial rotor system created by the Kamov Design Bureau. It was developed in the 80s. and adapted for the needs of the Russian army in 1995. The Ka-50 was designed to be compact and fast to minimize the risk of death. Due to its low weight and size (due to which it developed high speed and maneuverability), it became the only helicopter controlled by only one pilot. The Russian Ka-50 can carry 24 missiles, 4 missile pods. The Hokum can also carry AA-11/R-73 Archer air-to-air missiles, making it a worthy opponent to other attack helicopters. It is also equipped with a 2A42 30mm combat cannon. The maximum speed of the Ka-50 Hokum reaches 350 km per hour, and the combat radius is 250 km.

1. AH-64D Apache Long Bow

The best combat helicopter in the world. The Boeing AH-64 Apache attack helicopter was known as a powerful anti-tank helicopter in the Gulf War. Designed to perform military missions, day or night, in adverse weather conditions, the Apache was created to meet the demanding requirements of the US Army's advanced attack helicopter plans. The helicopter is equipped with the latest level of electronics and fire control system, and has unique firepower. The Apache can be equipped with 16 AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, 76 70 mm air missiles, in combination with an M 230 automatic cannon.

The armies of the world have recently begun to use combat helicopters. As a matter of fact, a total of 27 models of these machines were created. But which one is the best at the moment? We have compiled a short list, selecting applicants based on several important parameters. A combined indicator of performance, speed, protection, agility, firepower and avionics capabilities was taken into account. All attack helicopters on this list are incredibly powerful killing machines.

Mi-24

The Russian Mi-24 remains one of the most famous attack helicopters around the world. Although production of the machine ceased in 1991, it is still in use in many countries. The helicopter is equipped with a double 23 mm cannon and carries Sturm-V, Ataka-V and Hermes-A missiles.

Apache

The US AH-64D Longbow Apache (“Apache” according to the Russian classification) serves as the main attack helicopter of the US Army and is the most common attack helicopter in the world. It was actively used during the Gulf War. The Apache is armed with a 30 mm M230 cannon, carries 16 AGM-114L Hellfire 2 missiles, 4 Mistral 2 air-to-air missiles and can be equipped with anti-ship missiles.

Mongoose

Italy The first attack helicopter developed in Europe. The Agusta A129 Mangusta is a two-seat light vehicle designed specifically for attacking armored targets. A pair of 20 mm cannons, 12.7 caliber machine guns and 8 TOW-2A anti-tank missiles.

Kestrel

South Africa The Denel AH-2 Rooivalk helicopter is designed to attack enemy personnel and equipment, but is also actively used as a support and escort vehicle. On board the Kestrel carries a 20 mm caliber cannon, and air-to-air and air-to-ground guided missiles are mounted on 6 hardpoints.

Z-10

China The Chinese Z-10 Gunship helicopter is the first specialized attack helicopter of the PRC. The Z-10 is considered to be in the same class as the A-129 Mangusta and Rooivalk AH-2. The helicopter body has a standard Gunship configuration with a narrow fuselage. The Z-10 is equipped with a 30 mm cannon and carries 10 HJ-9 or HJ-10 anti-tank missiles.

Tiger

France/Germany One of the most modern helicopters in the world, the Eurocopter Tiger, is currently in service with Germany and France. This medium-weight twin-engine attack helicopter first entered service in 2003.

Mi-28

Russia The Russian beauty “Night Hunter” (Havok, “Devastator” according to NATO classification) is designed to search and destroy targets in conditions of active fire resistance from enemy tanks. This armored killer has a top speed of 200 mph, making it a very difficult target. The Night Hunter is armed with two 30 mm cannons and air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.

Ka-52

Russia The Alligator's predatory contours can frighten even experienced enemy pilots. This powerful helicopter, one of the fastest and most advanced in the world, uses 30 mm cannons, anti-tank missiles, Igla-5 air-to-air missiles, and an armored killer with a speed of 320 km/h, making it a very difficult target. The Night Hunter is armed with two 30 mm cannons and air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles.

Viper

The US Bell AH-1Z Viper is a modern version of the AH-1 Cobra. It is the only attack helicopter with a fully integrated air-to-missile capability. 6 hardpoints, 16 air-to-ground guided missiles and 8 AIM-9 unguided missiles.

The list includes both well-known Western developments and rather unexpected Eastern and African combat helicopters. There are also three Russian “iron birds” in the ranking.

MIR 24 has collected information about the main bladed “death machines”, which to this day can be seen in reports from “hot spots” and at exhibitions of the best examples of military equipment.

10th place. Agusta A129 Mangusta

This Italian attack helicopter was the first to be completely designed and assembled in Western Europe. Its carrying capacity is 4.6 thousand kilograms, and it can reach speeds of up to 278 km/h. It is typically equipped with three 20 mm Lockheed Martin cannons, as well as eight air-to-ground, air-to-air missiles and several dozen unguided missiles. It is in service with the Italian and Turkish Air Forces.

9th place. Mi-24 "Crocodile"

8th place. CAIC WZ-10

Chinese helicopter developed on the basis of a Russian design. The crew is located in tandem, which is not the case in any other combat vehicle. Used primarily as an anti-tank helicopter. Due to its relatively small carrying capacity, it can accelerate to 300 km/h, while the body of the “iron bird” is made using stealth technology. Armed with a 23 mm cannon, as well as air-to-ground, air-to-air missiles and unguided projectiles. It is in service with the Chinese Air Force.

Photo: 3GO*CHN-405/mjordan_6

7th place. AH-2

Attack helicopter developed in South Africa. Designed to destroy enemy manpower and equipment. It reaches speeds of up to 300 km/h, and there are no seats for passengers; only the pilot and weapons systems operator can board. Equipped with a 20 mm cannon, guided and unguided missiles. It is in service with the South African Air Force.

Photo: Danie van der Merwe

6th place. HAL LCH

5th place. Eurocopter Tiger

It was developed by a Franco-German consortium based on three principles: “Should not be visible to enemies,” “If spotted, it should not be hit,” “If hit, it should remain in the air.” The combat vehicle is equipped with modern systems for reducing visibility, detecting and countering air defense and “survivability”. The latter provides for massive armor. Equipped with a 30mm cannon, a variety of missiles and 12.7mm machine guns as secondary weapons. It is in service with the armies of Australia, Spain, Germany and France.

Photo: DVIDSHUB – Flickr: French, US forces continue working side by side

4th place. Bell AH-1Z "Viper"

The US-designed attack helicopter features state-of-the-art main and tail rotors and avionics. It also works flawlessly in bad weather conditions and at night. Mainly used by the US Navy. Speed ​​is important in naval battles, which is why the Viper is one of the fastest combat vehicles, reaching speeds of up to 410 km/h. Armed with a 20mm triple-barreled cannon, a large number of air-to-ground missiles and other projectiles. It is also possible to install additional two guns.

Photo: Lance Cpl. Christopher O'Quin, USMC - U.S. Marine Corps photo

3rd place. Mi-28N "Night Hunter"

Another helicopter developed at the Mil plant. This is a maneuverable combat vehicle capable of performing many aerobatics. It can fly forward at speeds of up to 325 km/h, and its lateral speed is 100 km/h. The helicopter copes well with tasks in any weather. Armed with a 30-mm cannon, several types of missiles, it can also transport small loads for laying minefields. It is in service with the Air Forces of Algeria, Iraq and.

Photo: Yevgeny Volkov

2nd place. Ka-52 "Alligator"

"Alligator" is a new generation heavily armed reconnaissance helicopter. It reaches a good speed of 330 km/h, but this combat vehicle does not need to fly fast. It has a target detection range of up to 300 km, and can also hit armored vehicles at a distance of 100 km. One of the most modern Russian aircraft is equipped with a 30 mm cannon and several different missiles. Interestingly, both the crew commander and the weapons system operator can control the helicopter.