Ukrainian forces make strategic gains, down Russian Ka‑52 helicopter

The Armed Forces of Ukraine entered Kursk Oblast on Tuesday. Russians are experiencing losses; media reports indicate casualties, injuries, and soldiers taken prisoner. Ukrainians have also reportedly destroyed heavy equipment, including a Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter valued at up to $16 million.

Journalists covering the war in Ukraine reported the entry into Kursk Oblast in Russia in the morning. The information about the attack was also provided by acting regional governor Alexei Smirnov.

According to Mateusz Lachowski, a TVP correspondent in Ukraine, Ukrainians attacked the town of Sudzha from two sides. They used artillery and drones. The Ukrainians aimed to force the Russians to withdraw some forces from the front lines, thus relieving their own units in Donetsk Oblast.

Since the morning, journalists have been reporting on losses in the Russian military. According to the "Moscow Times," three civilians were killed, and 13 people, including five children, were injured. Ukrainian soldiers have also reportedly captured enemy military personnel, including two identified conscripts. Russian media states that up to 90% of residents in border regions have left their homes and moved to temporary shelters.

Social media also contains information about lost military equipment. This primarily concerns the Russian Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter. "The Insider" adds that the crew of the helicopter died.

According to defence24.pl, the Russians eagerly showcased the helicopter before the Ukraine war. The Kremlin dubbed it the "best combat helicopter in the world." It is considered the newest in the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation. Ukrainian "Pravda" reported a year ago that the value of one machine is up to $16 million.

The helicopter mentioned is equipped with the 9K121 Vikhr missile, which is guided by a laser and has an I-251V Shkval targeting system. It can carry up to 12 units, allowing it to attack targets from 3 to 7 miles. The businessinsider.com portal reports that it is capable of eliminating tanks.

Due to ground threats, Russians use "Alligators" very cautiously on the front line, keeping them away from the first line of the front. But they had no choice this time, and another machine went up in smoke.