Russia deploys MI-28NM Night Hunter helicopters and Dan-T weapons in Ukraine

The Russian Ministry of Defence released video footage on November 6 showing an attack carried out by an MI-28NM Night Hunter attack helicopter using a strike weapon named 'Dan-T'. In the footage, the helicopter is seen flying with two weapons on its external pylons and releasing one of them. According to the Russian Ministry of Defence, Ukrainian personnel and drone command posts were targeted in this attack. It is reported that this incident took place in the sector of Western allied forces.

Dan-T is a jet-powered loitering munition designed for missions similar to those of cruise missiles. A small jet engine is used in this weapon, allowing it to advance towards the target after release. It can cover a much greater distance compared to the standard battlefield weapons of a helicopter. According to the Russian weapons company Rosoboronexport, the range of Dan-T is up to 450 kilometres, although the distance from the launch point to the target in this specific attack has not been disclosed.

According to Rostec, the Dan-T flies autonomously after launch, meaning the crew does not need to accompany the weapon to the target. This feature allows the helicopter to release the weapon and return to a safe location while the munition continues towards its designated target. This method helps attack helicopters avoid short-range air defence systems located around the target. They can now attack from a distance instead of repeatedly entering the airspace of dangerous fronts.

The use of Dan-T is being promoted for both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters, which may include aircraft of foreign design. However, the MI-28NM footage does not prove that it has been fully integrated across every announced platform. Russia is now adding a new launch platform to attack the enemy's rear lines, i.e., the rear area. This has made the security of bases more challenging for the defending forces, as the attacking aircraft or helicopter can remain hundreds of kilometres away, and the incoming weapon must be intercepted mid-flight.

Loitering munition means that it can circle over the target area for some time and then carry out a precise attack. Due to the jet engine, its speed and range differ from traditional rockets or missiles. According to Russian media and official statements, this system gives the helicopter crew the opportunity to conduct effective strikes while remaining at a safe distance. The use of drones and long-range weapons is increasing by both sides in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. Due to this new capability of Russia, the Ukrainian side may now have to pay more attention to the security of its rear command centres, drone bases, and supply lines. Air defence systems will now have to be strengthened not only on the frontline but also in remote areas.

For Russia, this system could reduce the risk of loss of helicopters as they do not stay in dangerous zones for long. Rostec and Rosoboronexport are also presenting this system for export, so that aircraft and helicopters of other countries can also acquire such capabilities. This development is an example of the combination of launch platforms and munitions in modern warfare. By giving a long-distance strike role to a slow platform like a helicopter, Russia is making its artillery and air power more diversified. The purpose of releasing the footage may also be to send a strategic message that Russia now possesses the capability to ensure that bases deep within enemy territory will not remain safe. Its success in actual warfare will depend on weather, electronic warfare, and the enemy's interception capabilities.

The MI-28NM Night Hunter was Russia's modern attack helicopter, capable of operating at night. It was already equipped with various types of missile and rocket systems, but the addition of long-range munitions like Dan-T has significantly increased its capability.