Russia completes initial Ka-52K sea trials

[Zarvan]

Kamov is now assessing the results of maritime trials of the Ka-52K naval attack helicopter that were conducted in late 2016 and early 2017. Follow-on trials are now expected. Source: Rostec

Russian Helicopters has completed the first phase of maritime trials of the Kamov Ka-52K Katran (Dog Shark) naval attack platform, Rostec State Corporation announced on 2 April.

Two of the twin-seat co-axial Ka-52Ks performed the trials over a period of weeks from late 2016 to early 2017, the results of which are now being analysed by the Kamov Design Bureau.

"Ka-52K helicopters completed the first phase of testing in marine conditions, after which it can be concluded that the machines may be placed on an aircraft cruiser and successfully complete their tasks… However, one [naval] test is insufficient for understanding the work of its engines, units, avionics, control and armament systems in maritime climate. The design bureau will continue its work as part of tests including those on the aircraft cruiser," the Deputy CEO for Sales of Russian Helicopters, Vladislav Savelyev, was quoted as saying.

The Ka-52K differs from the baseline Ka-52 Alligator (NATO reporting name 'Hokum-B') in that it is fitted with folding rotor blades and folding stub wings; enhanced corrosion protection and modified air conditioning; shipborne ILS navigation aid; crew life-support systems compatible with immersion suits. While the initial weapons fit is the same for both variants, the naval Ka-52K may be equipped with a dual-band radar which would permit launching of Kh-35 and Kh-38 missiles.

The first production Ka-52K (serial number 0101) flew at Arsenyev on 7 March 2015, and made its public debut at 'Army 2015' exhibition at Kubinka, near Moscow, between 16 and 19 June of that year. Although sea-trials are still ongoing, the Russian Navy deployed the Ka-52K on combat operations over Syria between November 2016 and January 2017 as part of the air wing stationed on the aircraft carrier Admiral Kuznetsov .

The Russian Federation Navy has ordered 32 Ka-52K helicopters, of which about 20 are thought to currently be in service.

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[Incog_nito]

Egypt might be ordering it.