Kampala, Uganda | THE BLACK EXAMINER | The Ugandan People’s Defence Force (UPDF) recently incorporated Russian-made Mil Mi-28N attack helicopters into its diverse aerial fleet, marking a significant enhancement to its capabilities.

Although specific details about Uganda’s acquisition of the Mi-28N attack helicopters remain undisclosed, reports from local media suggest that at least three Mi-28s were observed at Entebbe Air Base on June 15, coinciding with a visit by Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni.

In late July 2023, the Ugandan Air Force showcased the firepower of its new Mi-28 attack helicopters during exercises at the Karama training school. Footage from the exercises provides a rare glimpse into the operational capabilities of these aircraft within the Ugandan military arsenal.

The UPDF, already equipped with approximately a dozen Mi-24/35 attack helicopters, several Mi-8/Mi-17s, AB 206 Jet Rangers, half a dozen Bell 205s, and a couple of Bell 212 helicopters, maintains a versatile and capable airborne force.

The mystery surrounding Uganda’s negotiations for the Mi-28 adds intrigue to this deal with Russia, considering that the Russians themselves prefer the more reliable Ka-52 helicopter, relegating the Mi-28 to secondary tasks during the war in Ukraine. Despite its secondary role, Russian troops have lost at least 13 Mi-28 helicopters in Ukraine since February 24, 2022.