Mi-8 Helicopter Destroyed in Russia’s Samara, HUR Reports

On Wednesday, April 17, a Russian Mi-8 multipurpose helicopter was destroyed in the Russian city of Samara, 800 kilometers from the border with Ukraine, the military’s Main Intelligence Directorate (HUR) reported.

The helicopter was destroyed at the Kryazh airfield.

Screenshot

HUR posted on its Telegram channel: “The Russian army used this aircraft in the war against Ukraine to transport weapons and personnel.

“A helicopter of this type can cost between $10 million to $15 million.”

HUR did not comment on how the helicopter was destroyed or who destroyed it. Rather, they posted a still image of a helicopter and a blurry video of something burning. Kyiv Post has not been able to verify the video.

Kyiv Post's sources within intelligence said that the destruction of the helicopter “was a planned sabotage.”

Video of Mi-8 helicopter destruction

Mi-8's characteristics

The Mi-8 (NATO codification: Hip) is a multi-purpose helicopter developed by the Milya Design Bureau in the early 1960s. It is one of the most mass-produced twin-engine helicopters in the world, and is also among the most mass-produced helicopters in the history of aviation. It is widely used to perform a variety of civilian and military tasks.

Navigation and flight instruments as well as radio equipment allow the Mi-8 to fly at any time of the day in both simple and difficult weather conditions. The helicopter is equipped with a heating system (a KO-50 kerosene heater is used) and ventilation to maintain a comfortable temperature in the cockpit and cargo cabin.

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The passenger version of the Mi-8 helicopter has up to 18 seats, while the transport version has folding benches for 24 seats.

The airborne transport modification of the Mi-8MT is designed for landing and evacuation of troops, fire support for ground troops, precision bombing, and transportation of cargo and paratroopers.

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