Russian manufacturer Kalashnikov has carried out the flight trials of Vikhr long-range anti-tank guided missiles at the Russian Ministry proving ground.
The tests were conducted together with KBP, NTsV Mil&Kamov and the Aerospace Forces of Russia.
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Vikhr missiles are designed to destroy moving armoured vehicles, enemy fortifications, and low-speed air targets.
As part of the trials, a Ka-52 Alligator reconnaissance and combat helicopter fired 22 missile launches.
Ka-52 Alligator is an all-weather attack helicopter operated by the Russian Air Force.
Manufactured by Kamov Design Bureau (part of Russian Helicopters), Ka-52 is a twin-seat variant of the Ka-50 attack helicopter.
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By GlobalDataDuring the revision work, the ‘probability’ of hitting targets at short ranges (SR) was increased, and the flight stability was improved without impacting the core characteristics of the missile.
The upgrades were delivered at the design bureau’s initiative.
Vikhr missile has a cruise speed of 610m/s and a range of about 800m-10,000m.
Kalashnikov stated that the trials confirmed the efficiency of the upgrades.
Kalashnikov said in a press statement: “Earlier, the possibility to hit targets at ranges up to 10km, considerably higher than the specifications intended during the development of the missile, had been assessed, with positive results.”
In November 2019, Kalashnikov Concern delivered over 700 latest Kalashnikov AK-12 assault rifles for Russian Special Operations Forces.
