AH-64E Apache VS Kamov Ka-52 Alligator Attack Helicopters
American A-H 64 APACHE VS Russian K-A 52 Alligator Attack helicopters are fierce predators that go after enemy troops and guard friendlies. The American A-H 64 Apache and Russian K-A 52 Alligator are two of the worlds most advanced and deadliest attack helicopters. Which one of them is better and why? We’ll compare these helicopters in this video, the American A-H 64 Apache VS Russian K-A 52 Alligator.
1. Quick Facts The A-H 64 Apache is a twin-engine attack helicopter developed for US Army in 1984. The US Army has more than 2000 Apaches in service. Per unit cost of the latest variant is around $36M. On the other hand, the first KA 52 Alligator was rolled out in 1997. The Russian Army has more than 100 K-A 52 helicopters in service. Per unit cost of the latest variant is around $16M.
2. Engines & Performance The Apache is equipped with two turbo shaft engines, each providing 1,890hp. The helicopter can climb at a rate of 12.7m/s. The maximum and cruise speeds of the helicopter are 293km/h and 265km/h respectively. The ferry range and service ceiling of the helicopter are 1,900km and 6,400m respectively. The endurance is 3 hours 9 minutes. The helicopter weighs around 5,165kg, while the maximum take-off weight is 10,433kg. While the Alligator is powered by two turbo shaft engines driving two contra rotating main rotors. Each engine produces maximum power of 2,400hp. The helicopter can climb at rate of 12m/s. The maximum and cruise speeds of the helicopter are 300km/h and 260km/h respectively. The alligator can fly at a maximum altitude of 5,500m. The helicopter has a practical flight range of 460km, while its ferry flight range is 1,110km.
3. Survivability The apache has crew compartment shield between the cockpits in such a way, that at least one crew member can survive the hits. The compartment and the rotor blades are designed to sustain direct hits from 23 mm rounds. A high degree of Ka-52 survivability is ensured by the pilot’s cockpit fitted with steel plates that can withstand direct hits of 20 mm projectiles. Protection of fuel tanks, controls, drive system, auxiliary power unit are also heavily armored.
4. Firepower The apache is equipped with 30mm automatic chain gun with 625 rounds a minute. The helicopter has capacity for up to 1,200 rounds of ammunition. Apache is armed with the Hellfire air-to-surface missile with fire and forget mode. The Range of the missile is around 8 to 12km. On the other hand, the alligator is equipped with 30 mm movable gun installed under the fuselage. The six wing-mounted external Hardpoints can be attached with wide array of weaponry. These Hardpoints can carry anti-tank guided missiles, laser guided missiles system, rocket launchers for 80mm unguided S8 rockets.
5. Sensors, radars & Avionics The Apache is equipped with millimeter-wave Longbow radar, which can perform under poor-visibility............. While the alligator is equipped with mast-mounted Radar with two antennas for aerial and ground targets.................. So what are your thoughts which attack helicopter is better and why, please let us know in the comment section.