The rockets are getting used with specifically tailored M261 rocket pods.
Few months after the US authorities introduced the availability of Hydra 70 mm rockets to Ukraine, we now have proof of them getting used on Mi-24 Hind helicopters. In reality, a video emerged on social medias exhibits an aircrew loading the US-made 70 mm rockets in an tailored M261 rocket pod underneath the stub wing of a Mi-24V.
The helicopter seems to be one of many Hinds donated by the Czech Republic last year. The Hydra 70 mm rocket and the 19-shot M261 rocket pod are apparently changing the S-8 80 mm rocket and the 20-shot B-8V20 rocket pod normally seen underneath on Ukrainian Mi-24s. Aside for the pylon adapter put in on the pod, we don’t know if different modifications have been required to make use of the brand new unguided rockets.
Ukrainian airman loading American Hydra 70 unguided rockets right into a rocket pod of the Czech-delivered Mil Mi-24V helicopter. pic.twitter.com/KxZm4zLqtw
— Standing-6 (@Archer83Able) August 1, 2023
The Hydra rockets have been provided with the laser-guided Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) kits, nonetheless this variant thus far has solely been seen in use with floor launch platforms. The rockets seen within the video seems to be geared up with the usual unguided M151 Excessive-Explosive warhead.
Based on the Ukrainian Militarnyi web site, US-made ammunition is step by step changing Soviet-era S-8 80mm unguided rockets, that are already depleted as a result of their continued use by Su-25 assault plane and Mi-8 and Mi-24 helicopters. In reality, the Su-25 has been sighed utilizing for some months the LAU-10 4-shot rocket pods loaded with the Zuni 5-inch Folding-Fin Plane Rocket (FFAR).
Apparently, the aircrew within the video can be carrying a US-made Gentex HGU-56/P Rotary Wing Aircrew Ballistic Helmet and a Maxillofacial Protect. The helmets have been bought final yr by Ukraine to enhance the possibilities of survival of their helicopter pilots.
Stefano D’Urso is a contract journalist and contributor to TheAviationist primarily based in Lecce, Italy. A graduate in Industral Engineering he is additionally learning to attain a Grasp Diploma in Aerospace Engineering. Digital Warfare, Loitering Munitions and OSINT methods utilized to the world of navy operations and present conflicts are amongst his areas of experience.
