The Main Intelligence Directorate of Ukraine (HUR) has disclosed a list of Russian companies involved in the production and maintenance of military helicopters, highlighting that over a dozen of these enterprises remain unsanctioned despite the ongoing conflict.
According to HUR, these companies are responsible for the development, manufacturing, repair, and servicing of various helicopter models, including the Ka-52 “Alligator” reconnaissance and attack helicopter, as well as the Mi-8 transport helicopter. Notably, fourteen of these enterprises have not faced restrictions from any member of the sanctions coalition in the four years since the full-scale invasion began.
Among the identified companies are:
- VR-Service JSC, which specializes in the overhaul and modernization of Mi and Ka helicopters;
- VR Foundry LLC, known for producing magnesium castings for the holding’s enterprises;
- Ulan-Ude Aviation Plant, which manufactures rotor blades for Mi-series helicopters.
HUR emphasized that sanctions should extend to the civilian helicopter manufacturing sector due to the high compatibility between civilian and military versions of various helicopter types, particularly the Mi-8, which is widely used by the Russian Armed Forces.
The Ka-52 is a Russian combat helicopter designed for reconnaissance, target designation, and coordination of attack helicopter operations. It is capable of engaging both armored and unarmored vehicles, as well as personnel and aerial targets on the battlefield. The first test flight of the Ka-52 took place in 2008.
Equipped with the “Arbalet” radar system, the Ka-52 features an armored crew capsule, which can be ejected at altitudes ranging from 0 to 4,100 meters. Either pilot can control the helicopter’s weapon systems and operations.
In a related development, on February 22, Ukrainian defense forces destroyed two Russian helicopters at an airfield in the Oryol region using strike drones. This attack resulted in the loss of a Mi-8 multipurpose helicopter and a Ka-52 attack helicopter for the enemy.
The Ukrainian intelligence agency has identified several Russian companies involved in military helicopter production that remain unsanctioned. This revelation raises questions about the effectiveness of current sanctions in curbing military capabilities amid ongoing conflict.