Ukraine’s HIMARS Strike Destroyed Four Russian Helicopters in Belgorod
Ukrainian special forces reportedly destroyed four Russian helicopters in a High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) missile strike in Russia’s Belgorod region, about 25 miles from the Ukrainian border.
In a Telegram post, Ukraine’s Special Operations Forces (SSO) said the strike targeted a forward Russian helicopter base used for refueling and launching attacks on Ukraine, destroying two Ka-52 attack helicopters and two Mi-8 transport helicopters.
The Ka-52 “Alligator” is a Russian attack helicopter used for striking ground targets from long range. It has been widely used during Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The Mi-8 is a Soviet-era transport helicopter used for carrying troops and equipment. Ukrainian officials estimate the total value of the four helicopters at over $48 million.
A video released by Ukrainian forces shows drone footage of explosions hitting four parked helicopters. The video has not been independently verified, and Russia has not confirmed the losses.
During the operation, U.S.-supplied HIMARS launchers fired M30A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System – Alternative Warhead (GMLRS-AW) munitions, produced by U.S. defense contractor Lockheed Martin, at the target. This variant has a range of over 40 miles and delivers a fragmenting warhead that weighs 200 pounds.
“The enemy once again thought that deep in the rear he was unattainable,” the SSO said. “We once again proved that for the SSO there is nothing unattainable.”
The recent helicopter strikes occur as Ukraine, Russia, and the U.S. engage in ongoing ceasefire talks. Kyiv and Moscow have reportedly agreed to limit attacks on each other’s energy infrastructure and are exploring a similar agreement for the Black Sea.
