On the morning of July 15, Ukrainian soldiers from the Unmanned Aerial Systems Forces (UAS) successfully struck a Russian Mi-28 'Night Hunter' attack helicopter. The operation was carried out over the territory of the Belgorod region of Russia, near the settlement of Viazovoye. A drone was used exclusively to destroy the target.
This was reported by the Commander of the UAS, Robert 'Madyar' Brovdi, in his Telegram channel. In a joking manner, he commented on the result: 'Wormy Mi-28 "Night Hunter" — nose in the ground'.
Who carried out the mission
The operation was conducted by fighters of the 427th Separate Brigade 'Rarog' — a unit specializing in the use of unmanned systems. This is not the first significant success for the UAS: previously, 'Madyar' confirmed the destruction of 15 Russian ships in the Black Sea, where Ukrainian drones are actively 'hunting' enemy maritime targets.
What is the Mi-28 'Night Hunter'
The Mi-28 helicopter is a specialized combat vehicle designed to destroy tanks, armored vehicles, personnel, and low-flying aerial targets. It is also intended for direct support of ground forces. Its destruction over Russian territory demonstrates the growing effectiveness of Ukrainian unmanned systems even deep in the enemy's rear.
Context and consequences
This event occurs against the backdrop of a change in Ukrainian strike tactics: previously, the Crimean Bridge was actively attacked, but now the focus has shifted to other targets — including maritime vessels and aviation in border regions. The successful use of drones over the Belgorod region may indicate an expansion of the UAS operational zones and an increase in their operational flexibility.