Soviet Mi-24 "Hind": A Flying Tank

Employed in great numbers by Soviet forces during the Soviet-Afghan War (1979-1989) the Mi-24 "Hind" was dubbed the Flying tank due to its robust design, armored protection, and significant firepower.

The Mi-24 Hind was employed for a wide range of missions, including troop transport, close air support, reconnaissance, and combat operations against insurgent forces. The Mi-24's ability to carry troops and provide firepower made it a valuable asset for Soviet forces in the challenging terrain of Afghanistan

Powered by two Isotov TV3-117 turboshaft engines, it can reach a top speed of about 335 kilometers per hour. This version deployed during the Afghan war featured a 23mm cannon in a nose-mounted turret, 57mm unguided rockets attached to the wing hard points and x4 AT-6 Spiral ATGMs

Despite first seeing combat exactly 50 years ago during the 1973 Yom Kippur War the Mi-24 is still flying across the battlefields of Ukraine in 2023.