(KYIV) – Footage released by the AIR_FIGHTER Telegram channel has highlighted the continued reliance of Ukrainian forces on Soviet era aviation to combat the ongoing invasion by the Russian dictator, Vladimir Putin.
The video captures the operational deployment of a Mil Mi-8 helicopter, a platform originally designed in the 1960s, as it conducts strikes against positions held by the occupying forces. Despite the age of the airframes, Ukrainian pilots continue to demonstrate high levels of technical proficiency in executing low altitude combat missions.
The Mi-8 remains a cornerstone of Ukrainian army aviation, fulfilling roles ranging from troop transport to armed close air support. Military analysts observe that while these helicopters lack the sophisticated avionics of modern Western platforms, they remain effective when utilized by experienced crews familiar with the local terrain.
Skepticism remains high regarding the sustainability of these older airframes under the intense pressure of a multi year conflict, especially as the Russian military has faced disproportionate losses of the same equipment.
