Ukrainian Special Operations Forces have destroyed a Russian Ka-52 “Alligator” attack helicopter using a first-person view (FPV) drone in a calculated ambush. The strike was carried out by the Bombus Balista unit and reportedly occurred during a combat patrol over Ukrainian territory.
The operation, confirmed on May 16, was captured on video and shared by Ukrainian forces. The footage shows a successful mid-air strike using one of seven launched drones, part of a coordinated assault designed to degrade Russian aerial assets. The Ka-52, valued at approximately $16 million, was targeted while conducting what Ukrainian forces described as a routine reconnaissance mission.
Coordinated Ambush With Fpv Drones
According to Defense Express, the strike involved seven FPV drones deployed simultaneously from a concealed position. Ukrainian forces had set up a hidden command post from which they monitored the helicopter’s flight path in real time. The drones were launched when the target entered a predefined airspace and were guided using a digital interface.
One drone managed to make contact with the helicopter mid-flight, resulting in a direct hit. The recording ends at the moment of impact, with no visual confirmation of the aftermath. The unit described the strike as part of a planned ambush and emphasized its precision. Volunteer Serhii Sternenko noted that the drones used in the operation were funded through public donations, illustrating the growing civilian involvement in the procurement of military-grade equipment.
High-Value Target Neutralized
The Kamov Ka-52, also known as the “Alligator,” is one of the most advanced rotary-wing aircraft in the Russian inventory. It serves multiple roles, including armed reconnaissance and battlefield support, and is equipped with heavy armament and advanced avionics. As of 2022, Russia was reported to operate around 133 units of this model.
Ukrainian forces claim the helicopter was conducting a patrol when it was intercepted. The Bombus Balista unit, responsible for the strike, emphasized the strategic value of this loss to Russian forces. The Ka-52’s estimated cost, $16 million per unit, further underscores the financial and operational impact of its destruction.
Increasing Reliance on Tactical Drones
According to Newsweek, the use of FPV drones by Ukrainian forces has expanded significantly, particularly among special operations units. This method allows for real-time engagement of enemy targets with minimal exposure for operators.
The ambush on the Ka-52 follows earlier operations in which Ukrainian drones destroyed a Buk-M3 surface-to-air missile system and a Uragan multiple launch rocket system.
