Kamov's Ka-52 "Alligator" attack helicopter is making its debut international show appearance in a flying display, as Russia's rotorcraft industry looks for the type to make its first bite into the international sales market.

With its distinctive coaxial main rotors, the menacing type is already in operational service with the Russian air force, which is acquiring the aircraft as a replacement for its aged Mil Mi-24s. Nine Alligators have been delivered to the service so far, says Flightglobal's Ascend Online Fleets database, with a further 131 also to be handed over under current confirmed orders.

Ka-52 

A maximum take-off weight of almost 11t includes an array of armaments, including a 30mm cannon, 80mm unguided rockets and air-to-surface missiles.

The Russian military has also shown interest in a ship-based development, dubbed the Ka-52K.

The Ka-52 is among the products being promoted by Russian Helicopters (hall 2A, stand C198) and Russia's Rosoboronexport arms agency. They are seeking to secure the first export customer for the Alligator.

Source: Flight Daily News