Downed (probably on 06.08.24) Ka-52 analogue aircraft from Podar with suspension 👇
“Whirlwind” (9K121) is an ATGM developed in the 1980s, designed to destroy armored vehicles, including those equipped with anti-aircraft guns, as well as low-speed air targets. Designed for attack aircraft Su-25T, Su-39, Ka-50, Ka-52, as well as boats and small patrol ships.
In the realities of our war, this complex did not justify itself, after launch, it is necessary to hang in the air and accompany the missile “illuminating” the target. (more than one Ka-52 was shot down). There are also complexes of optical-electronic suppression (COEP, for example “Varta”), which can interfere with missile guidance.
Definitely one of the Russian platforms that had proven effective in it’s intended role. The KA-52 fleet has taken a lot of casualties fortunately.
KA-52 cost 20million, but offers fairly little which could not be had for less using drones or artillery and fighter planes are not much more expensive, but are more capable.