Ka-50 Hokum A attack helicopter

The Ka-50 Hokum A was a Russian attack helicopter, built by the Kamov Co., which made its first public appearance in 1992. It was known as the Black Shark in Russia and the Werewolf in the West.

A January 1992 briefing given by Sergei V. Mikheyev, chief designer, revealed that the aircraft was designed in competition with the Mi-28 Havoc for the close-support role. Lessons learned from early Soviet operations in Afghanistan were reflected in the emphasis on survivability and...