Ukraine downs Russian attack helicopter with drone costing a few hundred dollars

Ukraine's Unmanned Systems Forces have successfully struck a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter using a small FPV drone in the Belgorod region, according to multiple reports. The incident occurred in the settlement of Vyazovoye, as reported by Ukrinform, and the operator unit was identified as the Rarog unit from the 427th independent drone brigade.

"a small remote-controlled aircraft flown by an operator wearing video goggles that show a live feed from a camera mounted on the drone"

The Defence BlogUkraine says its drone just took down a Russian Mi-28 helicopter

The use of first-person-view drones has become a hallmark of Ukraine's drone warfare, allowing precise strikes against high-value targets at a fraction of the cost of traditional munitions. Commander Robert "Madyar" Brovdi of the Unmanned Systems Forces reported the destruction of the Mi-28 "Night Hunter" on July 15, according to english.nv.ua.

"low-cost FPV drone (approx. €500) to destroy a Russian Mi-28 attack helicopter valued at around €14 million"

The staggering cost asymmetry highlights the efficiency of drone operations. Le Parisien noted that the drone, carrying an explosive charge, pursued and struck the helicopter, though the human toll remains unknown. Video footage of the engagement was released by the Ukrainian forces.

The Unmanned Systems Forces, a dedicated branch of the Ukrainian military built around drone warfare, has increasingly targeted Russian aircraft and infrastructure. This strike demonstrates the growing effectiveness of small, remotely piloted systems against conventional military assets.