Russian Military to Receive Mistral-Designed Ka-52K Attack Helicopters

The Russian Helicopters Company will soon begin delivery to the Russian Armed Forces Ka-52K attack helicopters, designed to be based on Mistral-class helicopter carriers, Alexander Mikheev, company CEO, told journalists.

"In the near future, we will deliver to the Defense Ministry Ka-52K and Mi-28NM two-seated helicopters with improved technical and tactical capabilities and armament," Mikheev said during the MAKS-2015 air show.

The Kamov Ka-52 Alligator is a modification of the Ka-50 Black Shark attack helicopter. It is designed to detect and locate moving and static ground targets, and destroy enemy armory, helicopters and low-flying low-speed aircraft.

The Ka-52K is a ship-based version of the helicopter. It features folding rotor blades and folding wings allowing for the machine to be placed in the Mistral’s on-board hangars.

In 2011, France’s DCNS and Russia’s Rosoboronexport signed a €1.2 billion contract to deliver two Mistral-class warships. According to the document, France was due to deliver the first ship to Russia in 2014.

In November 2014, Paris suspended the delivery of the first ship, citing Moscow's alleged participation in the Ukrainian conflict. Moscow has repeatedly denied the allegations. The US also strongly opposed the delivery.

In early- August, Russian President Vladimir Putin and his French counterpart Francois Hollande agreed on the termination of the deal. France has already transferred compensation to Russia. The sum of the compensation was not made public. After the Russian control and communications equipment is dismantled from the carriers France will be able to take charge of both ships.