Uganda acquires Mi-28Ns

The Uganda People’s Defence Force (UPDF) seems to be the latest operator of the Mil Mi-28N (NATO reporting name "Havoc") attack helicopter.

During a visit by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni at Entebbe Air Base on 15 June 2022, three Mi-28Ns were noted in full UPDF markings.

It is unclear how many Mi-28s have been acquired by Uganda, or when they were delivered. The fact that several officials (Russian?) were present with the helicopters this week indicates delivery may have just occurred in the last few days. It is believed that they are the first delivery of an order for six Mi-28Ns.

The Mi-28N is armed with up to sixteen Shturm and Ataka anti-tank missiles. Shturm is a short-range, radio command-guided missile while the Ataka missile’s guidance is by narrow radar beam. Maximum range of the missile is eight km. The helicopter can also carry 80mm or 122mm rockets and gun pods. it is equipped with a turreted 30mm cannon on the nose.

Uganda also operates around five Mil Mi-24 Hind gunships, a cousin of the more capable Mi-28N helicopter. The East African country recently increased its defence spending to step up to it’s neighbour and regional rival Kenya, amid a new arms race in the region.

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