Mil Mi-24 / Mi-25 / Mi-35

The heavily armed helicopter gunship built for battlefield dominance

Overview

MIL Helicopters Russia 1972–Present $36 million

The Mil Mi-24 and its export variants Mi-25 and Mi-35 are twin-engine attack helicopters developed in the Soviet Union. Designed to combine gunship firepower with limited troop transport capability, they became iconic Cold War combat aircraft. The type has served in numerous conflicts worldwide.

Specifications

Units
Engine
2 × Isotov TV3-117
Engine type
Turbine
Thrust
2 × 2,200 lbf · 10 kN
Avionics
—
Wing tips
No winglets
Seats
11
Crew
—
Cabin width
4 ft 9 in  ·  1.46 m
Cabin height
3 ft 11 in  ·  1.20 m
Cabin length
9 ft 2 in  ·  2.80 m
Exterior length
57 ft 5 in  ·  17.50 m
Tail height
—
Fuselage diameter
—
Wing span
56 ft 9 in  ·  17.30 m
Baggage volume
—
Gross weight
—
Empty weight
—
Max takeoff weight
26,500 lb  ·  12,000 kg
Max landing weight
—
Max payload
7,700 lb  ·  3,500 kg
Fuel capacity
560 gal · 2,100 L · 1,700 kg (Jet A)
Max cruise speed
159 kt  ·  183 mph  ·  294 km/h
Maximum speed
—
Cruise speed
—
Approach speed
—
Range
243 nm  ·  280 mi  ·  450 km
Fuel burn
0.49 nm/gal  ·  0.24 km/L
Ceiling
14,750 ft  ·  4,500 m
Rate of climb
2,460 ft/min  ·  12 m/s
Takeoff distance
—
Landing distance
—
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Mil Mi-35

Operational Context

Mil Mi-24 / Mi-25 / Mi-35 — armed assault helicopter

The Mi-24 first flew in 1969 and entered service in the early 1970s. Unlike many Western attack helicopters, it was designed with a cabin capable of carrying up to eight troops in addition to its weapons load. This hybrid concept allowed it to deliver both fire support and assault capability.

Powered by two Klimov TV3-117 turboshaft engines producing approximately 2,200 shaft horsepower each, the helicopter cruises at around 160 knots (295 km/h). Maximum takeoff weight is roughly 26,000 pounds (11,800 kg). It carries a mix of cannon armament, rockets, and guided missiles depending on variant.

The Mi-24 gained combat experience in Afghanistan and many regional conflicts. Later Mi-35 variants incorporated upgraded avionics and night capability. The aircraft remains in service with numerous countries, reflecting its rugged design and enduring combat role.

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