Russia's Special Operation in Ukraine

How Russia's Air Force, Rescue Teams Work Side by Side in Special Op Zone

05:35 GMT, 23 August 2023
Russia's air power rules the skies in the special military operation zone, suppressing Ukrainian militants, conducting reconnaissance and protecting Russian soldiers from above. Yet there are times, when air force pilots can use some help, so that is when rescue teams step in to assist.
Sputnik
Rescue teams accompany Russian aviation in combat action. If Ukrainian militants manage to down an aircraft, rescue teams start searching for the pilot in order to evacuate him to a safe zone.
Previously, members of the rescue service in the special op zone told Sputnik that their work is invisible to some extent: if nothing bad happens, their teams simply return to base. Rescue helicopters generally try to stay out of the eye of the storm, but sometimes they may also find themselves under fire – so they really risk their lives.
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The Mi-28 known as the Night Hunter Attack Helicopter in combat action. This chopper is known as Havoc in NATO countries, since that is what it brings to the enemy.

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The Ka-52, also known as the Alligator scout-attack helicopter, in combat action in the special op zone.

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A Mi-28 attack helicopter is loaded up with unguided missiles before a sortie in the special op zone.

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Moments before combat action.

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The Mi-28 and Ka-52 together in action.

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A rescue team crew gets geared up for a ride.

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A rescue team member on board a helicopter.

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Rescue team members stay calm and keep their professional cool even in a given combat zone, for they know that lives depend on them.

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Rescue teams are well-versed in medicine and usually have basic first aid training.

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But they also must be capable of providing covering fire for downed pilots. `

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Rescued troops may need some stress relief.

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And there is no better stress reliever than a purring friend.

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Russia's Special Operation in UkraineairMi-28NMKa-52Ka-52 Alligator attack helicopterRussiaUkraineUkrainian crisisCat
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