Kamov Ka-52 Alligator
Kamov · Russia · first flew 1997 · helicopter
The Kamov Ka-52 Alligator is a Russian two-seat attack and reconnaissance helicopter using Kamov's signature coaxial contra-rotating rotors and no tail rotor.
Recognition (WEFT)
| W — Wings | High-mounted, rotary |
|---|---|
| E — Engines | 2 × turboshaft, fuselage-mounted |
| F — Fuselage | 16 m fuselage |
| T — Tail | No tailplane |
WEFT is AircraftIQ's four-point recognition method — how it works.
Spot it by:
- Coaxial contra-rotating main rotors with NO tail rotor
- Side-by-side two-seat armoured cockpit (unusual for an attack type)
- Stub weapon wings and a side-mounted 30 mm cannon
The stacked coaxial rotors with no tail rotor, side-by-side cockpit, stub wings and side-mounted cannon distinguish it from every Western attack helicopter.
Specifications
- The Kamov Ka-52 Alligator has a length of 16 m (52 ft).
- It has a wingspan of 14.5 m (48 ft).
- Its maximum speed is 300 km/h (186 mph).
- Typical crew: 2 (side by side).
Figures are for the representative variant described above; marks differ. See how AircraftIQ sources figures.
History
The Ka-52 is a two-seat development of the single-seat Ka-50 Black Shark, intended to act as a reconnaissance and command platform as well as a gunship. It first flew in 1997 and entered Russian service in the following decade.
Variants
The baseline Ka-52 spawned the navalised Ka-52K Katran with folding rotors and wings for amphibious assault ships, plus upgraded Ka-52M models.
Where you'll see it
Operated chiefly by Russia, it has seen heavy use in the Russia-Ukraine war, where significant numbers have been lost. It is not a Western or UK type.
Related aircraft
- Kamov Ka-226
- Ka-60 Kasatka
- Ka-31
- Ka-50 Chernaya Akula (Black Shark)
- Airbus H155 (EC155)
- Bell 427
- Eurocopter EC 155B
- HESA Shahed 274
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