Video Shows Russian Mi-28 Havoc Attack Helicopter Deliveries to Iran

Emergence of Evidence for Russian Mi-28NE Deliveries to Iran

Video footage has surfaced showing a Russian-made Mi-28NE Havoc attack helicopter flying over Tehran, Iran, following earlier online pictures of at least one such helicopter in the country. These developments suggest potential deliveries of weapons and materiel from Russia, amid escalating geopolitical tensions between Iran and the United States. The footage, shared on social media, remains unverified for exact location and timing, but the pictures appear to depict a hangar at Iran’s Pars Aerospace Services Company (PASC) at Mehrabad International Airport. PASC is linked to the sanctioned Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), highlighting the strategic significance of these arrivals.

Background and Hints of the Acquisition Deal

Hints of Iran’s acquisition emerged in early January when Iranian journalist Mohamad Taheri posted a cryptic message with a stock image of an Mi-28 in desert camouflage, associated with the Tasnim News Agency. Reports of Iran seeking Mi-28s, along with Su-35 fighters and Yak-130 trainers, date back to 2023, with Yak-130s delivered that year. While Su-35s originally intended for Egypt were rumored for Iran, some ended up in Algeria. Social media posts have geolocated the recent images to PASC, and additional tweets describe the helicopter in digital desert camo, fueling speculation of an initial batch arrival.

Technical Details and Capabilities of the Mi-28NE

The Mi-28 series, originating from the Soviet era with its first flight in the 1980s, entered Russian service in the late 2000s as the Mi-28N, followed by export NE variants. It features a 30mm nose turret cannon, anti-tank missiles, and rockets on stub wings, along with sensors like a mast-mounted radar and infrared camera. The exact Iranian configuration is unclear from low-quality footage and partial disassembly in photos, but observed elements include a possible mast radar, digital camouflage, and engine air filters suited for desert operations. A 2018 upgrade incorporated Syrian combat lessons, adding infrared countermeasures and survivability enhancements.

Strategic Implications Amid Rising Tensions

These Mi-28s represent a significant upgrade over Iran’s aging AH-1J Cobra fleet, offering better survivability, payload, and all-weather capabilities for defense against incursions or internal threats. However, sustaining them could be challenging due to Russia’s Ukraine-related commitments. The deliveries coincide with observed Il-76 flights from Russia to Iran, potentially carrying more arms, as ties between Moscow and Tehran strengthen. This occurs against a backdrop of post-12 Day War arsenal rebuilding, pursuits of Chinese air defenses, and US-Iran friction, including a recent F-35 drone shootdown from USS Abraham Lincoln and reports of possible US strikes or talks.

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