On April 7th, the Ministry of Defence of Belarus announced that its armed forces have received a new consignment of four Mi-35M attack helicopters, produced by the Russian defense industry. This delivery has been delayed by a few months. The contract’s schedule stipulated that this batch of Mi-35M helicopters would be handed over to the Belarusian Air Force by the end of 2023. In August 2022, the Belarusian Ministry of Defence signed a contract with the Russian Federation for a total of 12 Mi-35M helicopters, designated for the Belarusian Air Force. The first batch of four helicopters was delivered in August 2023, with the handover of the first batch also delayed by five months.
The Mi-35M attack helicopter, a formidable addition to modern military arsenals, continues to evolve, offering enhanced combat capabilities and versatility on the battlefield. Developed by Rostvertol, a subsidiary of Russian Helicopters, the Mi-35M stands as an export variant of the iconic Mi-24 Hind, renowned for its prowess in combat operations. One of the key highlights of the Mi-35M is its prominent presence in the inventories of various military forces worldwide. Apart from being a stalwart in the Russian Air Force arsenal, this formidable machine finds deployment in the armed forces of several nations, including Venezuela, Azerbaijan, Nigeria, Kazakhstan, and Mali, underscoring its global significance in modern warfare.
Introduced in 2005, the Mi-35M represents a significant leap forward in helicopter technology, boasting superior flight performance and maneuverability compared to its predecessor. Designed primarily for attack and military transport missions, this multi-role combat helicopter integrates modern, high-precision weaponry tailored for destroying ground-based armored targets and providing crucial air support for ground operations. Furthermore, its adaptability allows for seamless modification to serve as an attack platform, ground assault vehicle, medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) unit, or transport carrier, catering to a wide array of operational needs.
Building upon the foundation of the Mi-24 Hind, the Mi-35M incorporates several key improvements, including shortened stub wings, a revamped rotor system, state-of-the-art avionics, upgraded turboshaft engines, and a robust hydraulic system. The cockpit and vital components of the helicopter are heavily armored, ensuring the safety and security of the crew in hostile environments. With an impressive physical profile, the Mi-35M boasts an overall length of 21.6 meters, a wingspan of 6.5 meters, and a height of 6.5 meters. In its ferry configuration, it can take off with a weight of up to 12,000 kilograms, capable of carrying either eight troops or a payload of 2,400 kilograms.
