Mysteriously vanished Russian aircraft found serving in Ukrainian army

Since March 2022, following Russia's attack on Ukraine, 59 helicopters and airplanes, previously deemed unfit for flight, have been missing from the register of the "Rosaviation" Federal Agency of Air Transport.

As cited by the defense portal, the Russian newspaper "Izvestia" reported that the deregistered machines were sold illegally to foreign customers. Among the decommissioned aircraft are the Mi-8 helicopters and Il-76 transport planes.

The Russian-initiated investigation focuses on procedural non-compliance during operational helicopters and aircraft deregistration. Another concern that caused a scandal in Russia is that at least three of the Mi-8 helicopters were sold to Ukraine, where they were used in operations against Russia.

The investigation also uncovered that some Il-76 planes were sent to countries that the Kremlin describes as "unfriendly". These aircraft were then used to transport supplies to Ukraine, which is under combat.

In addition, parts of the deregistered machines, unfit for flight, were exported as spare parts reservoirs. They eventually ended up in Ukraine or in countries supporting Ukraine.

The Mi-8 helicopter is a reliable workhorse for the armies of the former Eastern bloc and various armies worldwide. The aircraft was first flown in 1961 and became the foundation for developing Mi-17 and Mi-24 helicopters. Having produced about 17,000 units, the Mi-8 is still in production.

Throughout the decades, the helicopter underwent numerous alterations, ranging from the basic transport model to various editions of armed aircraft, specialized versions like the Mi-8PPA electronic warfare helicopter, and armored helicopters designed for arctic operations such as the Mi-8AMTSh Terminator.

The Polish Army currently operates at least 19 Mi-8 helicopters and over 20 Mi-17s.