Ukrainian Mi‑8 helicopters take aim at Russian drones in new footage

A new recording has surfaced showing how the Mi-8 helicopter and a machine gun are being used to combat Russian drones. The tactic, described as one borrowed from World War II, proves effective against these dangerous unmanned aerial vehicles.

Shahed-136 and Shahed-131 drones have been a nightmare for Ukrainians almost since the beginning of the war. These drones, produced by Iran, are used by the Russians on a very large scale, attacking not only Ukrainian soldiers and their equipment but also Ukrainian cities and civilians. These are relatively inexpensive constructs, making it impractical to eliminate them using advanced anti-aircraft systems. Ukrainians are continuously finding new alternatives.

Among the systems used to combat drones are VAMPIR missile systems, German Gepard systems, and sometimes even Yak-52 training aircraft. The use of the Mi-8 and its onboard machine gun for this purpose was first documented in August of this year. The new recording is just the second example of this kind. Once again, it is evident that the Ukrainians' efforts were successful, and the Shahed-136 was shot down.

Forbes describes this strategy as similar to those from World War II, when helicopters with machine guns protected bombers from enemy fighters.

The Shahed-136 is about 11.5 feet long and can reach speeds of up to 115 mph. It carries a warhead weighing about 88 pounds. The smaller Shahed-131 can be equipped with a warhead weighing between 22 and 33 pounds.

The Mi-8 itself is a multi-role helicopter of Soviet origin with a history dating back to the 1960s. During the war in Ukraine, Ukrainians have most often used these machines for transporting soldiers or evacuating civilians.

Armed Mi-8s can also participate in combat missions, which is increasingly seen in the context of fighting drones. The Mi-8 can operate at an altitude of up to 14,800 feet and reach speeds of up to 155 mph.