Ukrainian 59th Brigade Downs Russian Ka-52 Helicopter Using FPV Drone

The 59th Separate Motorised Infantry Brigade has successfully shot down a Russian Ka-52 helicopter in the Pokrovsk sector using an FPV drone. The operation highlights the disparity in cost, with the helicopter valued at approximately $16 million compared to the few hundred dollars for the drone. This incident signifies a new tactical development in the use of unmanned systems by the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Published Mar 21, 2026

In the Pokrovsk sector, soldiers from the 59th Separate Motorised Infantry Brigade have shot down a Russian Ka-52 'Alligator' helicopter using an FPV drone. A video of the burning helicopter has been published online.

AI-curated by Theia

The Ka-52 helicopter is valued at around $16 million, while the FPV drone costs only a few hundred dollars. This operation illustrates a significant advancement in the tactics of the Ukrainian Armed Forces regarding the use of kamikaze drones.