Year of production of the black shark helicopter. Russian aviation. Pros and cons of the coaxial system

Thirty years ago, on June 17, 1982, the first flight of an experimental B-80 helicopter, later called the Ka-50 ("Black Shark"), took place.

During the entire period of testing and operation of this aircraft, there were two Ka-50 disasters. On April 3, 1985, test pilot Hero of the Soviet Union Yevgeny Laryushin crashed on a Ka-50 prototype. And on June 17, 1998, in Torzhok (Tver Region), as a result of the Black Shark crash, the head of the Army Aviation Combat Training Center, Hero of Russia, Major General Boris Vorobyov, was killed. Both Ka-50 crashes occurred due to the fact that the helicopters were sharply maneuvering, as a result of which there was an overlap of the rotors.

The Ka-50 has a coaxial rotor layout, the tail rotor is excluded. Due to this scheme, the designers managed to reduce the diameter of the propellers and the overall dimensions of the helicopter. The Ka-50 has an aircraft-type fuselage and tail assembly, a retractable tricycle landing gear with a forward strut in flight and a relatively large wing. The most important feature of the Ka-50, which distinguishes it from all built and developed combat helicopters, is the use of a crew of one pilot on it, which required a high degree of automation of control of the helicopter and its weapons.

Crew - 1 person.

Maximum takeoff weight - 10800 kg

Normal takeoff weight - 9800 kg

Maximum mass of consumable combat load -1811 kg

Normal mass of consumable combat load - 610 kg

Empty helicopter weight - 7692 kg

Maximum flight speed - 300 km / h

Cruising flight speed - 270 km / h

Static ceiling - 4000 m

Dynamic ceiling - 5500 m

Flight range with normal takeoff weight - 460 m

Ferry range - 1160 km

Length with rotating screws - 16 m

Height - 4.93 m

Main rotor diameter - 14.5 m

The material was prepared on the basis of information from RIA Novosti and open sources

The appearance in the airspace of Russia of the unique design of the Ka-50 helicopter, evidence of the perfection of the mind and flight of thought of its creators. Their machine, stepping into the future, is a reliable shield of the Motherland, which is capable of performing combat missions in the air, both over land and over water.

The new attack helicopter made its first flight in 1995, on the day of the 50th anniversary of the Victory over Nazi Germany. Some of its characteristics remain unsurpassed to this day.

Prerequisites for the creation of the Ka-50

The Ka-50 is a machine with a difficult fate, it was created at the Kamov Design Bureau. The work began in accordance with the 1976 resolution of the USSR Council of Ministers on the creation of new military equipment. The development of a new helicopter, with the "strike" classification, was entrusted to two design bureaus of Russia, Kamov and Mil.

Its creation was associated with the helicopter that appeared in the United States, which could radically change the structure of combat. In addition, our machine had to replace, not quite suitable in terms of characteristics to the class of attack helicopters.

The developments of the designers of Kamov's department were profiled on the creation of sea-based vehicles. This feature was determined in their choice of the way to create a helicopter. Mikheev S.V., who took over the leadership of KB Mikheev at that time, was looking for non-standard solutions in his work.

He supported the idea of reconstructing the tail rudder and installing a double coaxial rotor on the new machine. In addition, the designers of the Kamov bureau equipped the car with an ejection system, which is unusual for a helicopter. As a result, the new model received the following features:

without changing the power, the model received a large lifting force;
the maximum rate of ascent to the maximum height in the vertical direction has increased;
the diameter of the propeller blades was reduced, which made it possible to increase their rotation speed and reduce the resistance to air flow;
the helicopter has become lighter due to the lack of a tail rotor;
the crew of the car was represented by one pilot.

The tests of the attack helicopter have shown its reliability, unpretentiousness and efficiency in performing tasks on the battlefield.

The new development of the Kamov Design Bureau, launched in 1977, led to the birth of the unique Ka-50 Black Shark helicopter.

Unfortunately, the work took a very long time, but it was worth it. The first test copy appeared in 1981, in 1984 an order was signed for the serial production of the car. In 1993, the helicopter passed all military tests.

The first ten serial helicopters, which were put into service only in 1995, were prepared for dispatch to the troops. But at this, the Ministry of Defense suspended the purchase of "Black Sharks" due to lack of funds.

In the 2000s, money appeared, but there were still very few orders. In total, about 20 of these machines were produced. Since 2008, only the Ka-50 that replaced the Ka-50 has been produced.

Construction of the "Black Shark"

The helicopter has a twin-rotor coaxial structure with two gas turbine engines with a free turbine TV3-117VMA. Power more than 2200 hp. With. everyone has it.

The body of the machine is made using new polymer composite materials, alloys with a low specific weight, which also contributed to a decrease in the total weight of the structure.

Fuselage Ka-50

The fuselage design has a non-standard look. An aircraft type of construction was used.

It is based on composite materials and aluminum alloys.

As a result, the design of the helicopter received additional reliability and survivability, since such innovations in the design of the combat vehicle increase its maneuverability, increase the ascent and descent speed in the vertical plane.

The fuselage body is divided into three sections:

front, reinforced with spars. This part of the compartment is equipped with a sealed, armored cockpit. Armor accounts for about 350 kg of the total weight of the helicopter. Glazing made of transparent armor provides a safety view;
the middle compartment is occupied by electronic control devices for the helicopter, fuel tanks, ammunition for cannons and working units;
radio units are mounted in the tail section.

The fuselage is equipped so that devices that are not so important in the design serve as a shield for more significant devices in the helicopter.

Wing

The helicopter is equipped with wings that have a straight swept shape. With the help of them, the unloading of the rotors is carried out at high speeds of the horizontal flight of the helicopter.

On the lower part of the wing consoles, two pylons are attached, intended for suspension of external loads, which can be aircraft weapons or tanks with additional fuel.

The lifting system is located in the inner part of the wing and pylons. The weight of the total mass of the load on the pylons is allowed no more than 2000 kg.

The wing of the Ka-50, similar to the wing of an aircraft, includes elements that contribute to the high-quality operation of the entire structure: stability, impeccable controllability and balance of the aircraft in flight.

The empennage includes a keel, made as a continuation of the tail of the fuselage, a rudder with aerodynamic compensation and a stabilizer. Interestingly, the rudder and the horizontal tail are made like an airplane.

Chassis

The landing gear consists of three struts, which are retracted during the flight. The front caster with two wheels fits into a niche located in the forward fuselage compartment.

Two main bearings with a track of 2600 mm, equipped with brake pads, fold and press against the side wall of the rear fuselage compartment.

Power point

The multipurpose attack helicopter is equipped with a power plant, which includes:

gearbox with engagement couplings;
two turboshaft engines TV3-117VMA with electronic governor;
auxiliary power unit AI-9;
turbo drive.

The engines are equipped with two engine nacelles on both sides of the fuselage. Synchronization of engine power is provided. An autonomous oil system is provided for each engine, which lubricates the bearings of all bearings, drives and gears of the engine while simultaneously removing heat from these elements.

The design of the helicopter's power plant is analogous to a rocket engine in terms of its reliability. In combat conditions, in an emergency (with a complete loss of oil), the engines are capable of operating for 30 minutes. The motors are equipped with special centrifugal devices that prevent dust from entering the motors.

Firewalls protect the engine compartments from the rest of the compartments.

Transmission

The percussion machine transmission scheme is represented by one main gearbox and two intermediate gearboxes. This system provides power transmission from the power plant with a change in speed.

The main gearbox is equipped with freewheel clutches that disconnect the motors from the gearbox.

Carrying system

The design of the Ka-50 carrying system consists of two three-bladed propellers with a diameter of 14.5 m. The position of the rotors is coaxial, their rotation is carried out in opposite directions, which made it possible to simplify the mechanics of the machine, reducing vulnerability parameters.

Features of the vehicle carrier system:

rotation of the upper screw is oriented clockwise, the lower screw is oriented in the opposite direction (counterclockwise);
the blades of the machine are made of fiberglass, rectangular, formed from a hollow spar having a variable curvature, connected to the tail section. The tail section has a skin and end ribs made of hardboard material. The shape of the blade tips is arrow-shaped;
blades have increased performance when hit by shells;
pyrotechnic devices control the shooting of blades in case of pilot ejection.

The general design of the carrying part of the helicopter has increased one of its main characteristics - survivability.

Fuel system

The fuel system consists of two tanks with a capacity of 3000 liters. The location of the containers inside the fuselage. The fuel structure has a closed system, which includes two consumable tanks, equipped with protective containers filled with polyurethane foam.

The wing is designed so that four more tanks with fuel can be fixed under it. Each tank is designed for a volume of 500 liters.

The fuel tanks are located behind the bulkhead, directly behind the cockpit, the first tank is located. From here, fuel is supplied to the left engine. The second fuel tank is located in front of the aft fuselage compartment. Fuel from this tank enters the engine located on the starboard side of the helicopter and the engine of the auxiliary power unit.

The peculiarity of providing engines with fuel is in a loopback circuit. In case of refusal to supply fuel from any tank, the other tank starts to work for both engines.

Hydraulic system

The hydraulic system of the machine is represented by two independent parts, each of which is driven by an individual pump. The first system is needed to control the steering drives and emergency landing gear. The second is intended for aiming the gun, performing a regular release and retracting the chassis. This part of the hydraulic system supplies the working fluid to the wheel brake chambers on the main bearings. Both systems duplicate each other.

The hydraulic system provides for the operation of the pumps of both systems with rotating screws in the modes of self-rotation and the use of engine power.

In addition, the hydraulic pump of the first system operates when the auxiliary onboard power unit is operating.

Control system

The control system is located in the cockpit, its rods are made of aluminum pipes, the following items are included in the system:

longitudinal, transverse, track control;
control of the total pitch of the screws;
a device that provides an increase in the load on the control levers at a critical approach of the propeller blades.

Pilots are trained to control a helicopter on a special device called simulators.

On them, the pilot, in conditions close to real ones, can check in detail his actions on individual controls, during takeoff, landing, working with the dashboard and performing procedures in emergency situations.

Electrical system

The Black Shark's electrical system includes alternators that produce three-phase alternating current with parameters.

The rotation of the generators is provided by engines or a turbo drive from the auxiliary power plant of the helicopter.

The power supply of the "Black Shark" is provided from an alternating current source located on the ground.

Anti-icing system

The anti-icing system of the helicopter is thought out and executed with the utmost care, like everything else in this apparatus. Electric anti-icing heating is provided by:

windshield;
angle of attack and slip sensors;
rotor blades;
visual indicator of icing.

A directed stream of warm air from the engine compressors, heats the air intakes and dust protection structures. Washer systems and wipers protect the cockpit windshield and the Shkval-V complex glass.

The hazard gauge located on the bow compartment panel is designed to visually determine the presence of ice.

Air conditioning and ventilation system

Ventilation and maintenance of the required pressure and temperature in the cockpit is provided by the air flow from the helicopter engines. The same air flow heats the battery pack and windows.

When ascending to an altitude of 6 km, the use of oxygen equipment and a flight gas mask is provided on board the aircraft.

Instruments and devices are cooled by outside air.

Crew rescue system

To rescue the crew, the Ka-50 has a unique device - the K-37-800 ejection system, developed by NPO Zvezda, which supplies all aviation divisions of Russia with its products.

The sequence of actions is as follows:

shooting of rotor blades;
shooting off the upper part of the canopy above the cockpit;
triggering of the reactive system, pushing the pilot strapped to the back of the seat;
then the rocket system is turned off, the belts that fasten the pilot to the back of the seat are automatically cut;
the back of the seat separates from the pilot, automatically extending the parachute.

The helicopter is equipped with a device that duplicates the opening of the parachute.

The helicopter control system has a program for returning the helicopter to the location of its airfield in case of loss of control of the pilot.
The pilot has a second option for leaving the cockpit without ejection, using a parachute.

The design of the helicopter provides for the safety of the pilot in the event of an extreme landing of the aircraft "on the belly". In the bottom of the helicopter there is a crumpled honeycomb filler, which softens the force of an impact during a hard landing, the size and shape of the wing prevents it from overturning.

Navigation systems, piloting, guidance and weapons control communications

An integrated system in electronic memory, which contains all the available data of the coordinates of airfields, turning points on the route, main landmarks, targets.

The Rubicon device performs self-control of its program without using ground devices.

The operation of the complex is based on the algorithms of a digital computing system, which includes five onboard three-channel computers, a system for displaying combat and navigation information, a weapon control system and an external target indication system.

The second complex "Radian", which has a flight and navigation profile, is designed to provide piloting in an automatic mode, interacting with other systems. Complex "Radian" includes:

a device that provides automatic stabilization and control of an aircraft - an autopilot;
information complex of vertical and heading, providing measurement and issuance of roll angles to consumers;
information complexes of high-altitude-speed parameters, developed on the basis of the air signal system (SHS), used both in non-redundant and redundant form;
radar equipment, representing a speed and drift angle meter;
function of displaying the location of the aircraft on the map;
magnetic compass;
a radar designed to fix the exact level of flight altitude.

"Shkval-V" sighting system is used in the design of the helicopter for the guidance of guided weapons. He is performing a defense-search function.
To control the weapons on board the attack helicopter, the SUO-800M system is installed.

The equipment includes the "Ranet" system, which provides the pilot with navigation and flight information.

Defense system

The Ka-50's defense system includes laser and radar radiation detection devices, a dipole anti-radar reflector and a heat trap, a special pyrotechnic device that, when fired, creates a heat curtain around the vehicle, making it invisible to missiles with an infrared guidance head. The helicopter is equipped with fire extinguishing systems.

Armament

A powerful armament system is installed on board the helicopter, which is capable of hitting a modern armored tank at a distance of more than 8 km.

A gun

The designers of the Kamov Design Bureau equipped the new vehicle with a non-removable single-barreled automatic cannon, which was used on ground combat vehicles developed by the Tula Machine-Building Enterprise.

The caliber of the gun is 30 mm, the feed is tape. The gun is equipped with two types of shots: armor-piercing tracer and fragmentation tracer.

The cannon, which showed excellent performance in dusty conditions, turned out to be suitable for a helicopter, the development of which assumed its operation at low altitudes.
However, the weight of the gun significantly increased the weight of the helicopter, it was necessary to find a suitable place for it. As a result, the gun was installed in the most durable and rigid place of the fuselage, below, in the center of mass. The cannon hits targets at a distance of 4000 meters, excluding the approach to the dangerous zone of action of the air defense of enemy forces.

The inner wing pylons can accommodate a special container with a built-in GSh-23 double-barreled cannon.

Guided missiles

The main armament of the helicopter was guided missiles taken from land-based weapons systems. Rockets "Whirlwind" product of the Tula Instrument Design Bureau, are placed on specially made movable structures, two sets of 6 pieces.

The missiles were intended to hit targets in the direction of the laser beam, without adjusting the flight altitude from a distance of 8 km. The missiles are designed for armored and heavily fortified objects.

Additional equipment of the helicopter with a suspension of the Kh-25ML tactical missile with laser guidance is provided.

Unguided rockets and bombs

On board the flying "Akula" there are unguided rockets, four blocks of twenty S-8 missiles with a caliber of 80 mm and two blocks of S-5 missiles with a caliber of 122 mm. High-explosive bombs, bomb dispersing cassettes, and incendiary tanks may also be on board.

Features of the aerodynamics of the helicopter

The helicopter model created at the Kamov Design Bureau has unique aerodynamic characteristics, which are a consequence of the original design of each unit:

speed increase up to 390 km / h;
the ability to move horizontally sideways and backward at a speed of about 80 km / h;
static flight ceiling is 4000 m;
the dynamic mode is designated 5500 m;
lifting speed of the apparatus is 20 m / s;
general reconstruction of the helicopter made it possible to increase the efficiency of the carrier system up to 20%;
"Black Shark" has greater maneuverability, thanks to the coaxial design of the rotors;
in flight mode, the coaxial system creates a higher stability of the machine, eliminates vibration at high speeds;
maintaining the symmetry of the coaxial structure allows the machine to land and lift from very limited areas, regardless of the strength of the wind.

Combat use

With the outbreak of hostilities in Chechnya in 1999, it was decided to test the Ka-50's capabilities in real combat conditions, in difficult mountainous terrain.

A combat strike group (BUG) was formed, consisting of two Ka-50 helicopters, a Ka-29 helicopter, the function of which was to conduct observation and target designation.
The preparation of the group and its relocation to Chechnya was carried out in the strictest secrecy.

The war and the mountains immediately showed the excellent shock characteristics of the Ka-50 from all types of weapons, and the accuracy and accuracy of hits created a tangible savings in shells. The Ka-50 was unanimously recognized as a "mountain helicopter".

The high quality of the helicopter's performance has also been confirmed.

Field conditions did not prevent a very complex repair of the damaged vehicle and its return to service.

The new tactics of target designation not from the ground, but from a special command post for targeting in the form of a special digital signal, made it possible to deliver unexpected and accurate strikes against the militants.

The results of the operation of the helicopter complexes were marked by the high reliability of the Ka-50, ease of maintenance and elimination of combat "wounds" of the helicopter. The superiority of the Ka-50 over traditional single-rotor helicopters was noted.

The simplicity of piloting in the mountains, high maneuverability and survivability of the helicopter were noted. The Ka-50 helicopter black shark complex got a start in life.

Modifications

The developed first model of the Ka-50 ball was launched into series.

Ka-50SH, the second name is "night hunter" - represents a variant of the vehicle for performing combat missions not only in the daytime, but also at night.

Ka-50N is a completely re-equipped main serial modification. The helicopter is equipped with devices for operation at night. The modification differs from the main model by the addition of the Samshit-50T infrared sighting system to the lower nose of the fuselage.

Version Ka-50-2 black shark "Erdogan" - represents a more advanced modification of the Ka-50, equipped with weapons and electronics, developed by Israeli designers.

Ka-50-2 was executed for participation in the tender, which was announced by Turkey in 1997.

Tactical and technical characteristics

The new Ka-50 attack helicopter, created by Soviet designers at the Krylov Design Bureau, was put into service in 1995.

The new vehicle has the following tactical and technical characteristics:

crew composition - 1 person;
main rotor diameter - 1450 cm;
helicopter body length - 1350 cm;
height - 490 cm;
width, taking into account the size of the wings = 730 cm;
helicopter weight - 7000 kg;
total weight of the helicopter with cargo - 10,000 kg;
maximum weight of the helicopter with cargo - 1811 kg;
static ceiling height - 4000 m;
practical ceiling height - 5000m;
flight range with standard load - 460 km;
two Kamov TV3-117VMA engines, power 2260luxx2 hp With;
vertical ascent speed - 10 m / s;
cruising speed - 270 km / h;
level flight speed - 310 km / h.

Perspectives

Ka-50 is a unique helicopter complex, the creators of which awarded the car with great capabilities. 15 different modifications, based on the first model, found application in Russian squadrons.

Ka-52, modification, the cockpit of which is designed for two pilots. The designers did not abandon the coaxial rotor design. The functions of the pilots are strictly distributed: one pilot is entrusted with piloting the complex, the co-pilot keeps control of the weapon system and the current situation of the battle.

In subsequent modifications, while maintaining the main unique technical and flight characteristics, new systems were added, allowing the use of helicopter complexes in a wider range.

Many countries have advanced technologies in the production of cars and airplanes, but helicopters are the priority of several countries. Using the Black Shark as an example, one can be confident in the present and future successes of the Russian helicopter industry.

Video

The Black Shark helicopter with its maximum flight altitude deserves special attention among the combat aircraft of Russia. The Ka-50 helicopter gained popularity and its name thanks to the film of the same name about the war in Afghanistan. And what actually happened? What is the maximum flight altitude of the Black Shark helicopter? Answers in the article!

Start

Back in 1976, the United States began testing the ultra-modern Apache combat helicopter (AN-64). In response, the Council of Ministers of the USSR instructed the Kamov and Mil design bureaus to develop an attack helicopter that would be better than the then Mi-24, which was in service with the army and had low combat effectiveness and maximum flight altitude of the helicopter.

"Black Shark" (Ka-50) was the first project of a combat vehicle of this design bureau, which made this helicopter unique in many respects. Already in 1992, the first prototype was at the "Mosaershow-92" in Zhukovsky, and at the British International Air Show in Farnborough, he became the "highlight" of the program.

A completely unusual car

Bureau named after When developing the helicopter, Kamov went its own way, without borrowing the experience of either foreign or domestic developments. The following innovative solutions made the machine unique:

coaxial screw system;
one crew member;
improved catapult system;
perfect sighting and navigation systems;
increased armor protection and powerful weapons.

All this together made it possible to obtain the maximum flight altitude of the Black Shark helicopter in meters up to 5500, resistance to side winds, the ability to perform a combat mission at any time of the day and in any weather.

Pros and cons of the coaxial system

Such a system assumes that the helicopter's propellers are located one above the other and rotate in the opposite direction. This allows you to reduce the length of the propellers, reduce the wave drag, get rid of the tail rotor. All this makes the car more agile and faster. The Ka-50 performs such figures as a "dead loop" and "battle funnel", moves backward and sideways, maintaining a speed of 100 km / h. Not all cars in the world can do this. However, in combat, the blades are the most vulnerable part of the helicopter, and the presence of two propellers increases the likelihood of being hit by small arms. To minimize losses, the designers introduced a five-spar structure of the blades - this preserves the combat effectiveness of the machine when the propeller blades are pierced. The maximum flight altitude of the Black Shark helicopter was recommended as follows - 4,000 meters.

Another problem is the "clashing screws" in the corner attack. It was for this reason that two experienced pilots died. The analysis of accidents led to the prohibition of the Ka-50 to allow a roll of 70 ° during flights, and to limit the angular velocities to 60 deg / s.

The eyes and teeth of the "Black Shark"

And alignment isn't the only innovative solution. At that time, all combat vehicles had a crew of two pilots, so the crew of one person in the Ka-50 was unique. This gave both advantages - a decrease in the weight of the machine and a decrease in pilot training time, and disadvantages - an increase in the likelihood of losing the machine in case of injury or death of the pilot. Cabin reservations and a state-of-the-art ejection system mitigated these risks. Electronic stuffing, autopilot system and about two tons of modern weaponry have become the leading features of the Black Shark helicopter with the highest flight altitude ever recorded.

"Baptism" Ka-50

The first prototype took off in 1982, and in 1995 these helicopters have already become part of the aviation of the Russian ground forces. A combat operation on terrain with difficult terrain and in dire weather conditions during the second Chechen campaign in 2000 showed that the Black Shark is a highly effective combat helicopter. As part of a group of Ka-29, Mi-24 and two Ka-50 units, the combat strike operation was performed perfectly well. In total, these two helicopters made 49 sorties and fired over a hundred times. In total, 15 combat vehicles were built at the Progress plant in Arsenyev, 11 units of the Black Shark, and today they serve in the Russian air force.

How the Ka-50 became the "Black Shark"

The combat vehicle received its official name thanks to the cinema. In the 1993 film of the same name, the predatory shape of the fuselage and the black color of the car made it look like a dangerous marine predator. The filmmakers came up with the idea of calling the car a shark and, accordingly, black. The film was set in Afghanistan, although the Ka-50 did not participate in this campaign. For the first time, the film showed a real classified project of military equipment, and one of the main characters was the Hero of the Soviet Union, Combat Major General Valery Vostrotin.

Popularity and oblivion

For many years, the most popular combat vehicle was the "Black Shark" with the maximum flight altitude of the helicopter. Photos of the cars were placed on posters about military operations as the most spectacular. The production of these machines ceased in 2009, but the Ka-50 was not in the past - the Ka-52, nicknamed the "Alligator", became the continuation of the machine's life.

In 1976, a decree of the USSR Council of Ministers was issued, according to which the two leading helicopter design bureaus (named after Kamov and Mil) were entrusted with the development of a new attack helicopter. This was due to the beginning of tests in the United States of the AH-64 Apache helicopter and the fact that the Mi-24s in service had insufficient combat effectiveness.

Design bureau them. Before the development of the Black Shark, Kamova was engaged in the design of civil and sea helicopters and never created ground attack vehicles. In many ways, this determined the unique qualities of the new combat vehicle: the designers went their own way, not repeating the experience of either Russian or foreign colleagues.

Loop and battle funnel

The first unique feature of the future "Shark" was the use of a coaxial scheme: the main rotors are located one above the other and rotate in opposite directions. With this scheme, the helicopter does not need a tail rotor in the tail section, which means that the machine becomes less vulnerable, and engine power is not wasted on the drive. In addition, the presence of two propellers makes it possible to significantly reduce their length and the wave resistance of the apparatus, which means to make the helicopter more maneuverable and faster: the Ka-50 is one of the few helicopters in the world that is capable of performing a "loop", "battle funnel", move backward and sideways at speeds up to 100 kilometers per hour.

The disadvantage of the coaxial scheme is the great vulnerability of the rotor blades. In the conditions of modern wars, the helicopter takes a blow primarily from small arms, and its most vulnerable part is the blades. Since the Ka-50 has two rotors, the probability of a bullet piercing the blade is greater than that of conventional helicopters. To compensate for this disadvantage, the designers used a unique five-spar blade design, which is able to maintain bearing qualities even after a bullet hit.

Another drawback of such a scheme is the effect of "clashing" of the propellers, which killed two experimental Ka-50 helicopters. The fact is that the blades of a combat helicopter are located closer to each other than those of naval vehicles, and at supercritical angles of attack, they touch each other, which leads to their destruction and disaster. After investigating the causes of accidents, the Ka-50 pilots were forbidden to fly with roll angles up to 70 degrees and angular velocities in all axes up to 60 degrees / s.

The world's first single-seat combat attack helicopter Ka-50 "Black Shark" has a high level of automation of combat missions and survivability on the battlefield. Photo: RIA Novosti

No man is an island

A unique feature of the Ka-50 is that it is single-seater: all attack helicopters of that time were two-seater. The second crew member is the operator responsible for guiding missiles to the target. The developers of the "Black Shark", relying on the new achievements of the domestic defense industry, came to the conclusion that the pilot can also perform the functions of an operator. The layout made it possible to significantly reduce the weight of the device, and most importantly, to reduce the cost of training personnel: few people know that the cost of training the crew of a combat helicopter is often higher than the price of the vehicle itself!

The disadvantage of such a scheme is that in the event of the death or injury of the pilot, the helicopter is likely to crash. To avoid this, the developers have provided for an automated system, thanks to which the combat vehicle can independently return to base in the "autopilot" mode. In fairness, it should be said that the pilot can transfer control to the operator not in all two-seater helicopters. For example, in many modifications of the Mi-24 this feature is absent.

The cockpit is protected by special aviation armor, which can withstand several 23 mm shells hitting the side, and the glass can protect the pilot from small arms. Also, the main units of the helicopter are covered with armor: the fuel system, the engine. In addition, a unique ejection system was used on the Ka-50, in which the carrier blades are shot off. The K-37 ejection seat is capable of rescuing the pilot at all speeds and flight altitudes, including zero.

Shark eyes and teeth

The Ka-50 is a unique helicopter not only in terms of its flight characteristics, but also in terms of its electronic stuffing. The dashboard consists of several LCD screens that display all information about what is happening on the battlefield. To a large extent, the flight is automated: the pilot's work is simplified by the on-board computer. To conduct reconnaissance of ground targets on the helicopter, infrared and television sensors are installed that allow you to determine the target at a distance of up to 20 kilometers at night and 13 kilometers during the day, which means that the Ka-50 is capable of striking when entering the affected area of air defense and MANPADS. It is extremely important that all instruments for helicopters are manufactured in Russia, at the Ramenskoye Design Bureau: the production and repair of machines is in no way dependent on foreign suppliers.

Up to two tons of weapons can be installed on the helicopter pylons, and depending on the mission, it can be different: from anti-tank missiles with an automatic laser-beam guidance system to unguided missiles. In addition, the helicopter is equipped with a 30 mm caliber 2A42 cannon, which can fire both high-explosive fragmentation shells at a speed of 550 rounds per minute and armor-piercing shells. The downside of the cannon is its location: it cannot rotate in all directions, since it is on board the helicopter. However, according to the developers, this disadvantage is compensated by the maneuverability of the machine.

Combat use

From December 28, 2000 to February 14, 2001, two "black sharks" took part in hostilities on the territory of the Chechen Republic. The helicopters flew 49 missions, often in bad weather conditions, during which more than 100 firing operations were carried out (920 missiles and 1600 cannon charges were used up). In general, the combat use of the "Shark" was considered successful: the helicopter turned out to be better than the Mi-24 in terms of navigation, combat effectiveness and maneuverability. In addition, good armoring of the cockpit, the presence of a bailout system and flight automation allowed the pilot to be less nervous, focusing on the combat mission.

"Shark" and "Apache"

The experience of modern wars suggests that aviation is used most often where there are no own aircraft and helicopters, or a serious air defense system. Therefore, it is rather difficult to imagine a situation when "Shark" and "Apache" will "meet". In addition, modern combat helicopters are designed primarily for firing at ground targets, and not at air targets: although there was an idea to equip the Ka-50 with air-to-air missiles to destroy enemy aircraft, it was decided to abandon it.

The combat use of the AH-64 and Ka-50 took place in different conditions, so the effectiveness of these machines cannot be compared. If we talk about the characteristics, then it is not entirely correct to compare the single Ka-50 and the two-seater Apache. However, the two-seat modification of the Ka-52 "Alligator" is in no way inferior to the American helicopter. Moreover, in 2004, ex-Commander-in-Chief of the Air Force, Vladimir Mikhailov, said that the Alligator was far ahead of its competitors in the West by the criterion of “efficiency-cost”.

Glory and discontinuation

In 1993, the film "Black Shark" was released, its protagonist was a real combat helicopter, which later took part in the hostilities in Chechnya. The action of the film takes place in Afghanistan, although the Ka-50 had no real combat use in this country.

The huge popularity of the film was ensured by the fact that for the first time the latest military equipment, which was classified in the USSR, was shown on the screens, and one of the roles was played by a professional soldier, Hero of the Soviet Union, Major General Valery Vostrotin. Soon after the release of the film, the Ka-50 became the most popular Russian military helicopter. However, this did not stop the production of "black sharks" in 2009. The reason was criticism of the single-seat scheme and the development of a two-seat modification of the Ka-52 helicopter.

At the moment, the Russian Air Force is armed with 11 Ka-50 helicopters. A total of 15 vehicles were built.

This helicopter Ka 50, which first took off on June 17, 1982, will then be called "Black Shark", but for now this is only a prototypeB-80... Back in 1976, the Mil and Kamov Design Bureau began work on a project for a new attack helicopter on a competitive basis. This machine was intended to destroy manpower and equipment on the battlefield and low-speed air targets.

The history of the appearance of the Ka 50 helicopter

Late seventiesbecame insufficiently effective for the conduct of hostilities, and the beginning of the tests by the AmericansAn-64Apache prompted management to create a new attack helicopter.

Chief Designer S. Mikheev and the Kamov Design Bureau chose a special way of creating the concept of a new machine. For the first time, coaxial rotors with a shortened diameter were used, which made it possible to increase the thrust-to-weight ratio and rate of climb and, in the absence of a tail rotor, direct power to the main ones. In this case, a transmission was no longer needed to transfer rotation to the tail rotor and the weight of the helicopter decreased, and as a result, the survivability of the machine increased.

The achievements of the military-industrial complex in the field of sighting and navigation systems made it possible to reduce the crew to one person and reduce the weight of the helicopter due to the necessary armor that protects only one pilot. For the first time in the practice of helicopter construction, the car was equipped with an ejection seat to save the pilot.

In June 1982, test pilot Bezdetnov performed a test hover on a prototype numbered 010. This helicopter was not fully equipped and was intended only to test its flight qualities. Already the second copy of 011 had a power plant and relying systems to continue testing.

In 1984, the Kamov Design Bureau showed higher results compared to the Mil Design Bureau, and the then Minister of the Aviation Industry signed an order for the production ofB-80... In April 1985, test pilot E.I. Laryushin, testing the helicopter at maximum modes as a result of overlapping blades, died saving the car.

To exclude such incidents, they decided to increase the distance between the rotors and set up an automation that creates forces on the control stick when the blades are dangerously close.

In September 1985, after the final stage of comparative tests,B-80approved by the Ministry of Defense for mass production. Until 1995, there were state, and then military tests, and after them, on August 28, 1995, the President of the Russian Federation signed a decree on the capture of an attack helicopter, which received the namefor service with the Russian army. But at this time the state was experiencing significant financial difficulties and only 10 cars were produced.

Description of the Ka 50 attack helicopter

The coaxial design of the main rotor without a tail rotor led to a decrease in their diameter and overall dimensions of the machine. Havethe fuselage, the horizontal tail and the rudder are made like an aircraft, the wing for the helicopter is unusually large and works to unload the rotors.

The rotor blades are rectangular and consist of five spars, which is important, if one of them is damaged, the blade continues to work. The chassis is tricycle, the nose pillar rests against the fuselage niche, and the main ones are pressed against the sides of the hull. Armor made of composite materials protects the cockpit and machine assemblies. Hits are not scary 23 mm projectile, and the armored glazing of the cockpit withstands bullet damage.

An ejection seat with a pull-type rocket system placed inside allows one to leave the helicopter from zero altitude and at any speed. The rotor blades and the cockpit canopy are fired back during ejection.

Vital components and equipment of the vehicle are protected by armor, the weight of which is 350 kg. In the compartment behind the cockpit, the designers placed the units of the fuel, hydraulic system and the main gearbox. On the rear of the helicopter body there is a rudder and a horizontal stabilizer with side keels.

Below, on the plane of the wing, there are pylons for weapons or hanging tanks, at the end of the wing there are launchers for shooting false heat targets.

Two gas turbine enginesTV3-117VMAspaced on both sides of the hull and housed in nacelles with dust protection devices. Exhaust shielding devices are installed to reduce the visibility of the machine in the infrared spectrum.

An auxiliary power unit AI-9 is provided to start the engines. If one of the engines fails, the control system automatically increases the power of a serviceable power plant.

The combat survivability of the helicopter is achieved by duplicating and protecting vital components and assemblies. Two fuel fuselage tanks, below and partially on the side, a fire extinguishing system is installed, the tanks themselves are filled with cellular polyurethane foam for safety.

Television and infrared search equipment installed on the helicopter allows you to determine the target at a distance of 20 km during the day, and at a distance of 13 km at night. The machine is equipped with an on-board computer to automate the flight and reduce the workload on the pilot. Flight information is displayed on LCD screens located on the dashboard.

As a result of the efforts of the designers,almost the only helicopter in the world that performs a loop, a battle funnel and is able to fly at a speed of 100 km / h backward and sideways.

Flight characteristics of the Ka 50 "Black Shark"

The diameter of the blades of the carrying system is 14.5 m.
The weight of the empty car is 7700 kg.
The maximum takeoff weight is 10,800 kg.
Fuel weight in tanks - 1487 kg.
Payload weight - 2800 kg.
The highest speed is 310 km / h.
Cruising speed - 265 km / h.
The maximum speed of a gentle dive is no more than 390 km / h.
The maximum flight range with outboard tanks is 1160 km, without outboard tanks - 520 km.
Overload capacity - 3G.
Roll angle - no more than 700, pitch - no more than 600.

Armament of the Ka 50 helicopter

4 suspension points, weight - 2 thousand kg.
Built-in 30mm 2A4A cannon.
Two suspended 23 mm UPK-23-250 cannons.
NURS S-24.
NAR S-8 - 80 pcs.
NAR S-13 - 10 pcs.
URS X 25 ML.
ATGM "Whirlwind" - 10 pcs.
URS R-73.
Needle-B - 4 pcs.
Bombs KMGU-2.
FAB-500.
RBK-500.
3B-500.

After the action movie "Black Shark" successfully shown on screens, this name stuck to, where this helicopter was shot in the main role, which later successfully operated as part of a combat group in Chechnya.

Observing secrecy, during tests from the airfields near Moscow, the car was painted in a "civilian" color and imitators of portholes were glued to the sides. In flight, such a simulator peeled off and fell into the air intake of the power plant, creating an emergency. After that, the helicopter flew without windows.

Checking the survivability of the vehicle, the test pilots fired off the tail unit, but the vehicle continued to fly, maintaining stability and landing.

On the an automated system was used, which, in the event of an injury or death of a pilot, returned the helicopter in "autopilot" mode to the departure airfield on its own.

Since 2009, the helicopter has not been mass-produced; a two-seater has come to replace it, more maneuverable and convenient for warfare, butremains still in service.

Video: a loop on the Ka 50 helicopter

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