Ka-50 "Black Shark" – Soviet / Russian single attack helicopter, designed to defeat armored vehicles and mechanized equipment, air targets and manpower on the battlefield.
Ka-50 Black Shark – video
History of creation
By designing the second (after the "Ka-29") combat helicopter, the designation "B-80", in OKB NI. Kamov started in 1976 year. second, since ASW "Ka-15" in addition to other weapons of depth charges was not, and ASW helicopter "Ka-25", illustrated in air in Tushino July 1961 of the year, sham carrying rocket. I think, selection scheme of the new machine was not easy. One side, a unique experience in the development of coaxial helicopters, can significantly improve maneuverability characteristics and obtain a higher duration and range for the same load capacity, than the single-rotor design helicopters. On the other hand, customer - Front air - Collect your luggage, exploiting helicopters, created in OKB ML. mile. Naturally, for 30 years and have developed specific communication, positive effect on the combat readiness of the Army helicopter units. so, It needed to build a car, would destroy the existing stereotypes and able at an early stage of flight tests to demonstrate their superiority. When you select a shape of "V-80" were considered: longitudinal and transverse circuits with two screws, classic single-rotor with tail rotor and coaxial.
According to military experts, about one third of combat deaths in Afghanistan helicopter occurred due to damage to the tail rotor powertrain. therefore, analyzing the experience of combat use of helicopters, first circuit were rejected due to low survivability. Based on this, in OKB NI. Kamov bet on the machine coaxial, wherein no tail rotor transmission and extended to the rotor. Furthermore, if damaged transmission oil system units can continue to operate during the 30 minutes. In addition, the smaller size of the helicopter reduces its visual and radar signature.
To reduce the thermal exhaust emission at nacelles established special ejector nozzle. Both engines are interchangeable, and their nozzles are arranged pivoting, allowing direct exhaust jet as the right, and left.
Bet coaxial circuit, contrary to the skeptics, allowed to cut many of the "tight" nodes, now and then there is still in the preliminary design. But most importantly, what designers decided, this, contrary to established views, bet for a single-machine. At the same time expected, that the industry can create equipment, helps the pilot to look for non-selected weapon. Single helicopter arrangement will also reduce the weight of body armor, reduce the cost of training pilots and technical staff, reduce the loss of pilots in time of war. And on the reduction of the required number of places in kindergartens and schools in the garrisons, as well as the need for additional housing for military families and can not speak.
On a single coaxial helicopter easier to solve the problem using the emergency escape ejection systems. In particular, to "B-80" adapted ejection seat K-37-800 with parachute-rocket system, designed for low-speed flight vehicles. This seat allows the pilot to leave the car at a speed of 90 to 350 km / h at all altitudes up 6000 m, but upside down - on the heights of 35 m, pre-shooting rotor blades. In the latter case, if the helicopter is in the inverted position and dives, the minimum height of an emergency escape shall be not less 180 m.
Another feature of "B-80" became the airframe. The basis of the power circuit fuselage duct, outside indoor paneling. In its central part there are various systems and equipment units. This arrangement made it possible to easily develop later two double options with tandem machines ("Ka-50-2") and in-line ("Ka-52") location crew, and also to change and rearrange equipment, elements and add new weapons systems.
Another feature of the car was the retractable landing gear, abandoned by designers MVZ named ML. Mile in the development of "Mi-28" and "Mi-35". But to create a car, betting solely on the news, dangerous, To Equipment, developing its own laws, forced to use similar technical solutions. So, in "KA-50" and "Mi-28" engines not arranged in a single block, as precursors, and on the fuselage sides, which excluded their damage with one shot. Higher efficiency and thrust-weight (due to the absence of losses in the tail rotor) allowed "Ka-50" to continue the flight in the event of failure of one engine. Besides, the helicopter pilot for protection from destruction means and combination applied armored glass armor of steel and aluminum alloy. Screened the machine control system, the most important machines and equipment. We have developed a dual-circuit design of the rotor blade spar, and more, contributing to increase survivability and operational effectiveness of the machine.
The arsenal of the helicopter included 30mm limitedly movable gun "2A42" with ammunition 460 rounds (gun angles of deviation in the vertical plane from -2 ° to + 9 ° in the horizontal plane from -37 ° to + 3 °). not enough, but insufficient mobility guns compensated highly manoeuvrable helicopters. Remember, in fact on "Mi-24P" gun was altogether fixed. An instrument designed to deal with lightly armored targets at ranges up to 1500 m, and ATGM - with tanks at ranges of up to 8000-10 000 m and subsonic air targets at altitudes up to 2000 m slant range to 2500 m.
Feature of the gun "2A42" is the selective (selective) The ammunition supply and a variable rate of fire. Besides, four nodes external suspension can accommodate universal gun pods CPC-23-250 with a double-barreled weapon "GSH-23L" and ammunition 250 rounds, unguided rocket (THEIR) "C-13", "C-8" and "C-24",to 12 ATGM "Whirlwind" in transport-launch containers and missiles "air-ground" X-25ML laser-guided. Besides, suspension allowed four guided missiles "air-to-air" "Needle-B 'or F-73, as well as the caliber of the bombs 100 to 500 kg, Container small loads KMGU-2, incendiary tanks ST-500 and RBK-250/500 single unified cluster bomb. Since the time of PI inventor. Grochowski (I installed a three-inch field guns on the bomber "TB-1") This is the second case of the use of guns in domestic aircraft industry, created for the terrestrial armament. The main drawback of "2A42" is considered her a lot of weight, a main advantages - a high muzzle velocity and range of the aiming, reaching 4000 m. Too small and ammunition, almost three times less, What the "Apaches", but it does not refer to the gun, as to the characteristics of the helicopter.
Antitank missile complex "Whirlwind" laser-guided began to develop in the Tula Design Bureau 1980 year for "Ka-50" and attack aircraft "Su-25T". The first version of the complex "Whirlwind" with guided missile 9A4172 was adopted in 1985 year. The high efficiency of the complex was confirmed in the comparative tests helicopters "KA-50" and "Mi-28", but with ATGM "Storm-VM" and "Attack", from September 1986 to October 1986 year Gorokhovetsky range. The main warhead missiles - cumulatively, high-explosive.
To increase the flight range of suspension provided for up to four 500-liter fuel tank.
AT 1980 the Ministry of Defense to develop a single tactical and technical requirements in the "Ka-50" and "Mi-28", and in May of the following year defended conceptual design and layout "Ka-50". One year later, 17 June, test pilot EDO NP. Childless performed on it (board number 010) visenie, a 23 of July - the first flight in a circle. Then to "Ka-50" trials connected test pilot EDO EI. Laryushin. Mastered the machine and test pilot NII VVS VI. Kostin. But this was not a combat helicopter. It lacked weapons, and short wings installed at a large angle. More recently helped create additional lift in forward flight and increase in the pro-pulsivnoy force rotors to achieve the highest rate. It was targeted and streamlined shape of the fuselage and landing gear. Overall, it was a demonstration of the future combat vehicle, which fit to set world records. But the staff was not up to EDO Records, because should not only create a machine in accordance with customer requirements, but to surpass such an experienced opponent in the person of a cost center named ML. mile.
Tests of the first prototype of the "B-80" made it possible to determine the basic flight data, evaluate its maneuverability. Since the test "B-80" held in Moscow, then at the request of employees rezhimnosekretnoy service on the helicopter struck a "civil" symbols, and pasted on the sides of film with pictures of windows. But it almost led to tragedy. In one flight film become detached and enter into the engine. After that, by masking refused. The fate of this machine was tragic. third in April 1985 , during a demonstration flight killed test pilot EDO EI. Laryushin. At the end of the flight the pilot had to show a way out of a fight, fulfilling downward spiral with a turn to 360 degrees. In this mode, the machine fell into the so-called "vortex ring", which led to the whipping rotor blades. I shall warn, that does not just helicopters in this mode coaxial, but other schemes.
After this incident, we have increased the distance between the rotors, and a control system including boot mechanism, zatyazhelyayuschy machine control. The second flying prototype (board number 011) with engines TVZ-117VMA, taking off 16 August 1983 of the year, It was equipped with all the basic systems, air conditioning, and was intended for testing weapons and aircraft equipment. In particular, it mounted sighting and flight-navigation complex (PrPNK) «Rubicon», true, has not yet adjusted to the condition, and restrictedly movable gun mount NPPU-80. This machine is the first to demonstrate to senior management of the Soviet Union. This happened in April 1985 year Machulishchy airport (Belarus).
OKB names n-l. Kamov received addition to the technical specifications for "B-80" in terms of raising the requirements for complex equipment and weapons, and on the construction of another prototype "Ka-50SH1" in the version of attack aircraft, and launch it into mass production at the plant "Progress" in Arsenyev. The technical documentation for the manufacture of a mounting series of 12 "Ka-50SH1" cars began airing in 1989 year. The following year, the company produced lead car (board number 018), received the designation of "Ka-50". The first flight on it 22 May 1991 year performed a factory test pilot AI. Dougan.
Information about the new Soviet aircraft industry quickly penetrated through the walls of the "Iron Curtain", NATO has assigned it its code name Hokum A. While in Arsenyev unfolding series production, in March 1989 year pilot plant in Ukhtomsky produced the fourth prototype "B-80" (board number 014). Same standard for mounting series was built in April 1990 , the fifth prototype "B-80" (board number 015). Both cars are different from its predecessor devices shooting clutter (heat traps) HC-26 in the cassettes on the wingtips, prevention equipment for radar and laser irradiation, and a digital fire control system. Besides, of the "Rubicon" targeting equipment included. Analog weapon control system replaced the digital.
At the same time the machine number 015 first established with the ejection seat rocket and parachute pilot rescue system. State tests that has no analogues in the world system, received the designation "K-37-800", Air Force Research Institute conducted brigade headed NF. Babintseva and successfully completed bailout parachutist MM. Bannikova of research aircraft "AN-12LL". Feature ejection system shooting steel rotor blades of the helicopter and pulling armchairs with flyer via the solid propellant, allowing his escape almost any flight mode. Subsequently, on the basis of "K-37-800" has been created and tested a set of tools, "Ka-52" two-seat helicopter emergency escape.
During two years, from July 1988 to June 1990 of the year, by cars number 012 and 015 engaged in operational development of carrier systems and machine control, chassis, external fuel tanks, and the number of helicopter 011 and 014 - flight tests in order to clarify the characteristics of armament and engine dynamic stability, as well as the electromagnetic compatibility of radio electronic equipment.
Stage joint state tests of "B-80" as defined by the flight characteristics of the Research Institute of the Air Force began in September 1990 year in the fourth and fifth copies of the flight "B-80". In February 1992 in the suburban Chkalovsky entered and the first machine installation series number 018, which combat effectiveness was evaluated. The state tests were completed in December 1993 year with a positive result. In one version of this car later received a board number 18 and exhibited at the MAKS-2003 GOES "Boxwood-50".
AT 1990 the Military-Industrial Committee of the USSR requested the MAP to make mounting a series of "Ka-50" from 12 machines in the factory "Progress" in Arsenyev Primorsky Krai. The first "Ka-50", built in Arsenyev, take off 22 May 1991 of the year. The car was piloted by the factory test pilot AI. Dougan. A month later (28 June) , the first control and the test flight. At this time the helicopter ran a senior test pilot Lt. Col. With military acceptance. Denisenko. While the Soviet Union existed, This work was funded by, but with the collapse of the country's production process is disrupted, and 1994 machinery manufacturing, the stalled. Two years later, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation passed the eight helicopters mounting (experimental) series. Another machine ( serial number 03-02) It was paid in 2000 year, and she stood for almost a year at the factory airfield, We have not yet found the means for its transportation to the European part of the country. The factory test production "Ka-50" was also attended by the factory test pilots. Obrevko and B. Klimenok.
Eight helicopters delivered to the customer came in 344th PPI and PLC Army Aviation in Torzhok, and one car converted into a double, "Ka-52". In June 1993 , the "Ka-50" was first shown at the 40th Aviation and Space Salon in Paris. In flight, it showed the test pilot EDO Dmitry Avtukhov.
AT 1993 , the OKB named NI. Kamov prepared a draft project of the night version of "B-80". After approval of the project on the Krasnogorsk Optical-Mechanical Plant started to develop around the clock option surveillance-sighting system "Squall-In", which it was assumed to include an additional night channel based on thermal. However, due to delays in funding in the mid-1990s, it had instead to temporarily use a thermal imaging system, "Thomson" the French company. One of the thermal imaging demonstrated at MAKS-1995 in the preproduction sample "Ka-50" (board number 020). In November 1993 , began service testing machine in order to develop tactics of its combat use. Posledovodki serial helicopter due to the technical level 28 August 1995 of the year
"In-80SH1" Presidential Decree was adopted under the designation of "Ka-50". It was the culmination of the "Black Shark", because of financial difficulties managed to build only ten production vehicles. And then the "Mil" again went for broke, But more on that later, but for now I will describe further events in the "biography" of "Ka-50".
Separately should stay on the use of ATGM "Whirlwind" complex laser-guided, It is then assessed as failure operation 0,99985. There were no failures and ccPDP "Rubicon". Supersonic speed did not allow the opponent time to detect the missile flies up to him and put the noise. In addition, the firing of armor on the march and deployed for the attack is carried out outside the area of destruction of enemy air defense systems. In this way, December 1994 , the country has a real anti-helicopter of the new generation. But a chronic lack of money of the early 1990s is not allowed to implement its plans. Therefore, all eyes streamed abroad in search of a reliable customer, and the first on this path was Slovakia, which Russia, as the legal successor of the USSR was a tidy sum. And there was an offer for the supply to "In-80SH1", and this required a good advertising campaign. To this end, in October 1996 year to plane a delegation headed by SV. Mikheev, and "Ka-50" - its own power. During the days of stay in Slovakia military pilot C. Gold from Torzhok repeatedly demonstrated handling characteristics "Ka-50", a 22-23 October flew three times to demonstrate the use of weapons to the landfill. The success was tremendous. Many in Russia, and Slovakia already rubbing their hands, but the order was disrupted. Slovakia, as well as other countries of the former socialist camp, quickly swallow our NATO standards with their military equipment. TO 2007 , the industry produced only 15 machines, including prototypes.
Tests "Ka-50" showed the possibility of flying at speeds of up to 390 kmh, however this option for production vehicles limited 315 kmh. As befits a helicopter, "Ka-50" can move sideways and backwards at a rate of 80 and 90 km / h, respectively. The flight manual limits the maximum permissible overload 3,5 g, roll angles less than 70 °, Pitch - ± 60 ° and an angular velocity for all axes within 60 ° per second.
To "Ka-50" can be carried out and the "noose", that is more suitable for an air show. But after the death of General Vorobyov is not practiced.
The lack of cross-links in the control system provides easy piloting, It allows you to quickly master the helicopter pilots of average skill. for example, "Ka-50" successfully performs "funnel", single-rotor helicopters inaccessible circuit, when the car is moving with a negative pitch angle of about 30-35 degrees, keeping the goal in sight pilot.
Another feature of the machine, inherited from predecessors, is the possibility of an extended hover over one point, it is extremely difficult to do by helicopter classical scheme. Or, for example, using aerodynamic control surfaces rotate, You can expand the fuselage to either side, keeping the direction of flight, which has certain tactical advantages in battle. During the test in one of the helicopter blades, made of composite material, done 30 holes from automatic weapons, after which it is put on the test bench, where it is "the incident" another 80 hours.
"Ka-50" after its appearance thanks to the black color earned him the nickname "Werewolf", which translated from German means "werewolf". But after the beginning of the 1990s on the country's movie screens "Black Shark", where the main role "played", "B-80" number 015, nickname stayed with him for life. The movie also contributed helicopters are popular not only among the people, but also in the Armed Forces.
Ka-50 in combat
After completion of the "Ka-50" state tests was sent to the 344th PPI and PLC, who led the Major-General EA. Vorobyov. Mastering the center of the machine pilots began in 1992 godu the company «Kamov». In November first Torzhok 1993 he entered "In-80SH1" ("KA-50" preproduction № 01-02, board number 20). Time when it was difficult not only in terms of monetary allowances, but also the lack of pilot instruction, and there was no two-seat training apparatus. "Mi-24DU" it does not fit. true, It could accommodate coaxial "Ka-29TB", but the possibility of training pilots on it until now no one has mentioned. As usual in such cases,, first spring Torzhok 1994 year "In-80SH1" mastered the chief 344th PPI and PLC.
Then no one could not assume that four years later (17 June) Eugene A. terminates life, and in preparation for a demonstration flight. Investigation of the tragedy revealed, that its reason was whipping blades due to exceeding the limits set by the pilot. The situation was exacerbated by the fact, that all happened at low altitude, when he could not able to use the emergency rescue. Technique does not forgive any ordinary pilots, or general. The most important task, standing in front of the personnel of the 344th PPI and PLC, considered conduct military trials "Ka-50", but shooting at the test site is one, but the real battle is much more difficult. Therefore, in the course of the antiterrorist operation in Chechnya, we decided to test the "Black Shark" in real combat conditions.
December 2000 year at the airfield in the Northern suburb of Grozny, arrived two "Ka-50" (№ 24 and number 25 installation series) and one "Ka-29", additionally equipped with a gun mount with a gun 2A42 and secure communication complex (just like you). In their crews included pilots of the 334 th PPI and PLC, had combat experience, including in Afghanistan, but on OKB NI. Kamov - A. dad, last test pilot Air Force Research Institute. before Air Group, He headed by Honored Military Pilot, Hero of Russia Colonel A. red, there was a problem in combat conditions to test the reliability and efficiency of new combat vehicles.
When the pilots started overflew the area of combat operations, it became clear, that cover "Ka-50" helicopters "Mi-24" is very problematic, because the crew did not fly. And this burden was placed on the shoulders of the pilots from Torzhok. "Ka-50" flying, usually, Couple under the guise of two "Mi-24" for two months. Advantages of the "Ka-50" became apparent almost from the first days of fighting. for example, pilots do not just have to fall sharply to near the bottom of the gorges, Where, according to intelligence, the enemy was. But «Mi-24», accompanying "Ka-50", below 150-200 m not reduced for such maneuvers proved too heavy. for example, on the eve 2001 the couple, consisting of "Ka-50" (A. Egorov) and covers it with "Mi-24" (A. red), near the village of the Komsomolsk dealt an unexpected and accurate blow to the arms and ammunition depots, Tucked away in a narrow gorge. Dropping and clinging to the slopes of the gorge and at an impressive speed of repeating all its natural curves, A. Egorov, pilotirovavshiy «K-50», the first entering target slipped. Colonel Rudykh luckier - peripheral vision he saw a flea koshara, as well as the high bush hidden hitching post. About fifty meters from the construction of the pilot found a distinctive landmark, said scouts. The purpose found, but combine it with the mark of the sight they do not have time. The small fold in seconds, flashed before my eyes, I left far behind. Then, rapidly gaining altitude and turning, helicopter headed back to the goal and the first volley destroyed house…
Later in the report on the results of combat use of "Ka-50" in Chechnya recorded:
«1. Helicopters "Ka-50" and "Ka-29" are able to perform the task of finding and destroying the set goals in terms of mining and flat terrain in day VFR conditions at the bottom of the cloud 250 m and visibility 2,5 km. But for its equipment and terms of piloting helicopters capable of performing tasks and in adverse weather conditions.
2. All assigned to the BUG (military strike group. - Note. aut.) combat missions were carried out smoothly and in a timely manner.
3. Equipment <…> "Ka-50" and "Ka-29" (satellite navigation system KABRIS, PrPNK «Rubicon», HCA system, SUO) can adequately and effectively implement arms helicopters for combat missions, associated with searching and destroying desired objectives with known coordinates.
4. maneuvering characteristics <…> "Ka-50" and "Ka-29" can effectively carry out combat missions in confined airspace (difficult terrain of high mountains, narrow gorges, riverbeds). high power, as a feature of coaxial helicopters scheme, psychologically offloads pilot when piloting.
5. Equipment piloting a helicopter by day in IMC (normal weather conditions. - Note. aut.) much easier, than single-rotor design helicopters…».
According to the results of combat employment of helicopters Air Force Command and the Army Aviation has approved a list of measures to address identified observations, and the advisory board of the Office of the Army Army Aviation has issued recommendations on the expansion of the group of three "Ka-50". At the same time two cars should finalize before the machine level, fought against the elimination of defects found. Should be finalized and a helicopter-pointer "Ka-29VPNTSU", equipping it with clock surveillance and targeting system "Boxwood" and other lighting equipment cabin, adapted for use by the crew of night vision goggles.
It was desirable and ground simulators. It was recommended to speed up work on the "Ka-52", but not for training flights, and to replace the "Ka-29VPNTSU" and for the development of ground-based targeting. However, due to lack of funding, the initiative almost remained on paper, and the most real project was "Ka-52". Work on "K-50" factual zastoporilasy.
Related to the "Ka-50" has changed dramatically since January 2002 of the year, when the Air Force commander in chief appointed VS. Mikhailova. However, not only to "Ka-50", but also to the aircraft "AN-70", shouldering all the cargo in the Air Force "IL-76". This goes a lot of talk, and the truth, we learn not soon. But this is not the most important, the main thing, that 2002 , the "Ka-50" fell into disgrace. All this is felt in October 2004 of the year, when the delivery of the helicopter "Ka-50" at the Kant air base in Kyrgyzstan to participate in the exercises "Frontier-2004" supposedly there were no funds. At the same time JSC "Kamov" was a very important part of the machine in such events, especially when it came to demonstrating the advantages of "Ka-50" to "Mi-28N 'in the mountains. Therefore, the "Ka-50" (board number 25) unassembled at Kant airbase had to be delivered by plane "Il-76MD" at the expense of the helicopter Developer. The show also had to take on a high-technology site "Edelweiss" close to Mr.. Chol-mon th. Flew to Kyrgyzstan test pilots EDO AS. Popeye and YV. Timofeev. At the end of "scientists" at the ceremony participants, President of Kyrgyzstan AA. Akayev said: "Black Shark" in the Issyk-Kul blue sky is deeply symbolic. It's just a wonderful combination. It's the union of beauty and strength ". can not be excluded, that through this event at the beginning of the next 2005 , the Russian Defense Minister SB. Ivanov decided to resume serial production of "Ka-50" in Arsenyev and accelerate "Ka-52".
In October 2003 , the head of the Army Aviation Lieutenant General A. Surtsukov said, that "the helicopter("Ka-50". - Note. aut.) It is designed, that its maximum efficiency is shown in attacks from a distance and application point strikes enemy armored. Considering, that the counter-terrorist operation conducted in Chechnya and the militants no armor, the use of "Ka-50" inexpedient ".
true, Three years later, after several flight accidents with single-rotor design helicopters in the mountains of the Russian Defense Ministry has concluded, that for use in difficult geographical conditions required "KA-50" for controlling small-sized targets, equipped with effective reconnaissance, reconnaissance and damage. AT 2006 the total plaque "Ka-50" is reached 5000 hours, confirmed the appointment of resource basic units. A machine, having excellent flight performance, quickly found favor pilots, but not for long.
Finishing the story about the helicopters, created in accordance with the first competition to Soviet, you can make your own conclusions and. However, a person, although knowledgeable aviation equipment, but never to control the helicopter, the more militant, It may make some fatal mistakes. The author therefore suppressed his emotions and decided to call on specialists. The best thing about these machines was said in an interview with journalist Yury Zaretsky, published in the "Red Star", with the direct participants in the creation, tests and combat use of "Mi-28" and "Ka-50" Hero of the Russian Federation, Distinguished Military Pilot of Russia Alexey Novikov retired colonel and deputy chief of the combat training, senior inspector-pilot of the Office of Army Aviation in the main command of the Air Force Colonel Alexander Rudykh. "The arguments against the" Black Shark ", - noted Rudykh, - except verbiage can not be called. They do not stand up to scrutiny. Opponents of "Ka-50" is almost always rely on the statement, that one pilot is unable to perform combat missions to attack helicopters. After all, this requires a pilot car, lead connection, search, identify and destroy targets. But, in my opinion, it is not so, and even the exact opposite. If the pilot says, that alone to fight on a single helicopter impossible, he mastered only multi-seat cars, where the crew is very much divided functions. They sometimes even place the fourth turn tells the pilot the navigator. I am expressing my personal point of view, ready to defend it at any level. The military pilot in a position to carry out combat missions in the "Black Shark". "Ka-50" master pilot of average skill.
Who does not like single - it is his right, but let us remember the achievements of previous generations. Where we throw away the experience of ground-attack pilots in World War II? they flew, They fought and won! To 1942 , the attack was a single machine, but then to it to protect the rear hemisphere planted board arrow. The second crew member to perform protection functions and the pilot had no any help in finding and destroying targets. Prove to me, that the Great Patriotic War, letchik-Sturmovik, Commander of the Air Force - Deputy Minister of Defense of the USSR, Geroy twice the Soviet Union, Air Marshal Alexander Yefimov really could not fly at the same time, detect targets, destroy them and direct the actions of the group-attack aircraft. The height of combat use of stormtroopers commensurate with our… Armament is practically the same: gun, unguided rocket. They bomb armament was more developed, we - guided missiles. There are other differences in the "IL-2" features and "KA-50". In the forties there were no modern navigation and sighting systems, several orders of simplifying the tasks. Modern technology makes it possible very substantially to expand and simplify the flight mission by one person. Attack aircraft flying at speeds of about 400 kmh, and attack helicopters - about 300 kmh. It is quite clear: the higher the speed, the less time searching for ground targets. Add to this the ability to reduce the helicopter flight speed to zero, and a unique opportunity to "Ka-50" to use the tactics of ambush. It can be estimated with a single helicopter and another position. Having a double management - one of the most important requirements of the entire combat training. "Ka-50" - single machine, her instructor place nowhere, but there is a "Ka-52", so in the matter of training on those helicopters, we do not see any problems ".
"General Designer Sergei Mikheyev realized, - said Novikov, - that we insist on the finalization of the machine to the specifics of our education system, and found the original design solution: replaced in the cockpit Double Module, at the same time he expanded the capabilities of the new helicopter and made it an all-weather, Again with additional functions combat ".
"There was a clash of opinions. Test pilots from GLITs (named VP. Note Chkalova.-. aut.) thought, that "Ka-52", based on its destination, on the right, "cup" simply navigator, but our combat training department insisted version. At least, Military experts then listened very carefully to, but to understand the true causes of the requirements, no one tried to impose on us their vision, how to train and fight. With the advent of "Ka-52" immediately solved the problem by creating training and combat helicopters, and this is a great saving of funds for R & D, design, testing and commissioning of serial production of new training machines. Unfortunately, on "Mi-28N" to solve the second problem of adequate control it failed due to the ergonomic features of the front cabin. The problem for the "Mi-28N", having specific characteristics in piloting and even taxiing, It is a serious obstacle to his future… Experience combat use of helicopters in local conflicts led to the conclusion that, that the most vulnerable part of a rotorcraft rotor. Entering large-caliber bullets in the blade pulls out a piece of, lost screw bearing properties, and sometimes the car fell, burying under the rubble of the crew.
When you create a "Ka-50" designers have taken into account this circumstance. Vane rotor "sharks Black" in the longitudinal section is divided into two segments. Contact with the blade shell, usually, It incapacitates the only one of them, all the blade retains the strength and load-bearing characteristics. Hit small-caliber bullets for "Ka-50" did not scary. During state testing on test bench cycle was conducted, confirmed this experimentally. So statements about some problems on coaxial machine, which occur at a lesion of the rotor, are, to put it mildly, not scientifically justified. Any rotor, - continued Rudykh, - is a dynamically moving system luffing deflection vanes. It is always possible to create conditions and inevitably drive it into a catastrophic situation. Any aircraft created with restrictions.
Terrible scourge of single-rotor helicopter - spontaneous counter-clockwise rotation. It occurs when a lack of power to the tail rotor. If during landing or take-off wind blew from the side or feasibly more vigorously, than necessary, load controls and the pilot turns "sunk", there is an uncontrolled rotation of the rotorcraft. That is why the single-rotor design helicopters recommended landing against the wind. For this reason, killed many crews, paratroopers and passengers, Even in the same campaign in Chechnya. It was believed, that will remove the problem more powerful engine. Today it is already past stage. More powerful engines enhance the conditions of application of the helicopter, But the main problem is, what is called, abuts the tail rotor. There are other features, which trifled, e.g. air mass flows in the mountains. professionals, claiming, in the mountains to the wind of helicopters does not matter, I recommend once again carefully read aviation documents and repeat the aerodynamics. Limitation of even the plain is still in the wind, as well as operational features of single-rotor design of cars in mountain conditions. The majority of these restrictions spared coaxial machine, since they have no problems with the destruction of the control wheel, and even the tail boom. The "Black Shark", which has no analogues in the world, unique characteristics for mining conditions.
We also talk about self-imposed difficulties with piloting "Ka-50". declare, that the "Black Shark" is very sensitive pen. I had a lot of flying in this helicopter, but this did not notice. "Ka-50", as we say, on the control stick "sit tight". If, of course, It does not refer to a feature of the machine piloting single-rotor design, when the pilot should do double movement controls. On "Black Shark" this is not necessary. No less absurd and statements of some of the two-story "Ka-50". Fly on Kamov machines and make sure, they do not cause any discomfort, but you will find a number of unique properties and qualities. Helicopter coaxial irrelevant, from which side the wind blows during takeoff or landing. With a full combat load "Black Shark" is hanging at a height 4000 m. How effectively carry out combat missions on this machine, We have convincingly demonstrated in Chechnya…
The most important highlight was to check on the battlefield equipment, set at "KA-50". It allows you to send and receive all the information on the closed channel. The lack of such a possibility to transfer operational data between the aircraft and the command post on the battlefield - for the aviation problem of problems. Add to this, that any opponent can listen to the radio all our helicopters due to the lack of existing channels of communication closed, and it becomes clear, why we are very much needed practice combat application…
The first combat use of "Ka-50" carried out in the mountains and forests in the area south of the village of Tsentoroi. Nobody was going to feel sorry for "Black Shark", in Chechnya we fought without any conditionalities. Daily battle shock group received a task from the command and control group UGA(from). Early in the morning we "cut", usually, reverse slopes, which could not operate artillery, and we systematically "cleaned out" square by square… Technology showed its best side. Most of all I personally liking mounted on Kamov car digital map of the area. ; The pilot can move in the air at any desired scale and convenient for him; while the mark is displayed on the monitor, indicating the location of the helicopter. Designation without the use of the GLONASS system with accuracy +50 meters allow you to approach in bad weather.
Today created a myth, that time, "Black Shark" unaccompanied "Mi-24" did not fly in Chechnya, they are worse than the "Crocodile". obviously, "Experts" do not know or have forgotten the simple law of war: first knock Slave. Grosh us the price, if we made a loss of combat "Ka-50". In connection with this memorable interesting episode. The crews of the combat units did not know of opportunities "Ka-50", as well as features of piloting coaxial machine, but because after the first sortie was given though and emotional, but an accurate estimate: "This is not a flight, and some fiction. Unclear, someone who covers ". Then P. Saxaʙutdinov (Aviation Chief of the SA(from) in Chechnya) He said about the impossibility of the task to provide cover for his crews. That is why the "Crocodiles", accompanied the "Black Shark", piloted combat shock group. To assess the actions of "Ka-50" in the interests of research I had to take jobs in "Mi-24". Shortly speaking, Chechen militant group was independent research unit.
When I reported to Colonel-General in. Baranov (the commander of the air group in Chechnya) received orders to return to base, he called P. Sahabutdinova and asked:
– You'll be able to continue this work and to "clean up the spirits" as well, as the Kamov machines?
– No. "Mi-24" can not solve such problems.
– So why do they fly away? Why do not you demand them to leave?
General Baranov intelligible answer has not received, the more so since we are already at the request of the Joint Force Command(from) detained in a war zone by an additional month. BUG returned home, performing all its tasks.
During the trip revealed not only the strong, but also weak spots "Ka-50". Most of the comments made by the technique has been eliminated Kamov firm immediately after returning to Torzhok. Finally I got a helicopter, It does not need to upgrade for years. A study in the pulp and paper industry and the PLC continues, making developments for the future. Currently it worked out practical interaction "SU-25" and "KA-50". Attack helicopter performs a laser target illumination, at which a maximum range attack let guided missile ".
"Let me add, - said Novikov, - any test is necessary to confirm the advantages of the machine, but the most important thing - to identify weaknesses in new developments. They should be eliminated as soon as possible, making equipment as safe as possible for those, who is going to operate in combat units. Adapted for fighting. In the world of weapons and military equipment passed through it, otherwise it is simply impossible. for example, One of the main problems of application of combat aircraft - on the battlefield management. It costs since the birth of aviation. The pilot can go out alone in the target area, but find it - the main difficulty. It does not help even a multi-country aircraft. In combat conditions, the goal is masked, and enemy air defenses are not asleep. The Great Patriotic War, Afghanistan, Chechnya and other hot spots convincingly proved it. On the third or fourth run-up have a major percentage of aircraft losses. The solution to this problem is found for the first time in Russia Kamov implemented on machines ".
Serial production of "Ka-50" is stopped in 2008 year, when extreme car left the assembly shop of the plant, and the remaining reserve used in the construction of "KA-52".
Ka-50 modification
Ka-50 – Continuous modification.
Ka-50N – Ka-50, converted into a modification of the night. Different from the standard mounted in the ventral bow thermal sighting system "Boxwood-50T".
Ka-50SH – Night modification of the Ka-50 for round-combat missions. Created on the basis of Government Decree number 1420-355 from 1987 year. The first flight made 4 Martha 1997 of the year. From the standard version differs rearranged nose section, in which, along with the day and night is thermal channel sighting-flight and navigation system "Rubicon-N". The fairing is nadvtulochnom radar. Added satellite navigation and replaced some components of electronic and optical equipment. And is re-added and devices in the cockpit.
Ka-50-2 "Erdogan" – A modified version of the Ka-50 with tandem arrangement of the crew, modified armament and electronics. Created to tender, Turkey announced 1997 year. The electronics development participated Israeli experts.
Ka-52 "Alligator" – Modified double night version of Ka-50.
Performance characteristics of the Ka-50 Black shark
– First flight: 17 June 1982 of the year
– Getting Started: 28 August 1995 of the year
– years of production: 1981—2009
– units produced: 17
Overall dimensions of the Ka-50 Black Shark
– fuselage length: 14,21 m
– Height: 4,93 m
– The diameter of the rotor: 14,50 m
– Length with rotating. screws: 15,96 m
– Wingspan: 7,44 m
Weight Ka-50 Black Shark
– empty weight: 7700 kg
– Normal takeoff weight: 9800 kg
– Maximum take-off weight: 10800 kg
– Payload weight: 2800 kg
– fuel weight: domestic stocks 1487 kg, in PTB 1732 kg
Engine Ka-50 Black Shark
– 2 x turboshaft TV3-117VMA
– Power: in the emergency mode 2700 ls, at takeoff 2400 ls, at cruising 1750 ls
Ka-50 Black Shark Speed
– cruising: 265 kmh
– maximum: 310 kmh
– the maximum allowable in a shallow dive: 390 kmh
– maximally achieved in a dive (test): 460 kmh
Flight range Ka-50 Black Shark
– without PTB: 520 km
– with PTB: 1160 km
– The permissible angle of roll: ±70°
– The allowable pitch angle: ±60°
– Maximum operational overload: 3 G
Ka-50 Black Shark Armament
Built-gunnery: 1 x 30mm 2A42, ʙoezapas 460 rounds (selective boepitanie, variable rate of fire)
– suspension points: 4
– suspension Weight: 2000 kg
– Podvesnoe arms-pushechnoe: 2 × 23 mm gun-23-250 CCP in suspension containers, ʙoezapas 2 × 500 rounds
ungovernability raketnoe:
– HAP C-13 - 2 × 5 PC.
– HAP C-8 - 4 × 20 PC.
– heavy NURS C-24
guided missile:
– ATGM "Whirlwind" - 2 × 6 PC.
– X 25ML
– "Air-to-air": Needle-In - 2 × 2 PC. (not placed on pylons), R-73
Bombings:
– FAB-500, -250, -120, -100
– KMGU-2
– BZ-500
– RBK-500, -250
Photo Ka-50 Black Shark
