Kamov Ka-50 “Hokum”

The single-seat attack helicopter built around a coaxial combat design

Overview

Kamov Russia ICAO: KA50 1990–Present $16 million (2011)

The Kamov Ka-50 is a single-seat attack helicopter developed for the Soviet military. Featuring a coaxial rotor system and heavy armament, it was designed for anti-armor and battlefield support missions. The aircraft stands out for its unique pilot-only configuration.

Live Fleet Activity (KA50)

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Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Klimov TV3-117VK
Engine type
Turboshaft
Power
2 × 2,200 shp · 1,641 kW
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
1
Crew
—
Cabin width
—
Cabin height
—
Cabin length
—
Exterior length
44 ft 3 in  ·  13.50 m
Tail height
17 ft 9 in  ·  5.40 m
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
47 ft 7 in  ·  14.50 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
23,800 lb  ·  10,800 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
6,600 lb  ·  3,000 kg
Fuel capacity
530 gal · 2,000 L · 1,600 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
150 kt  ·  173 mph  ·  278 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
630 nm  ·  720 mi  ·  1,170 km
Fuel burn
1.15 nm/gal  ·  0.56 km/L
Ceiling
18,000 ft  ·  5,500 m
Rate of climb
3,150 ft/min  ·  16 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Kamov Ka-50

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Operational Context

Kamov Ka-50 Hokum — single-seat attack helicopter

The Ka-50 program began in the 1970s as a next-generation attack helicopter to complement existing Soviet designs. The prototype first flew in 1982, and limited service entry occurred in the 1990s. Its coaxial rotor system eliminated the need for a tail rotor and enhanced agility and survivability.

Powered by two Klimov TV3-117 turboshaft engines producing approximately 2,200 shaft horsepower each, the Ka-50 can reach speeds of around 165 knots (305 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is roughly 24,000 pounds (10,800 kg). Armament includes a 30 mm cannon and a range of rockets and guided missiles.

The single-seat configuration relied heavily on automation to reduce pilot workload. Although produced in limited numbers, the Ka-50 influenced later variants such as the two-seat Ka-52. It remains one of the most distinctive modern attack helicopter designs.

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