ATE Super Hind Mk. III

Overview

Super Hind Mk IV

Super Hind Mk IV in flight.

Source: Unknown author - © Copyright lies with original owner

Origin

South Africa

Type

Attack helicopter

Entered service

2001

Status

In service

Development

1996 - 1998

Developer

South Africa - Advanced Technology and Engineering (ATE)

Production

2000's

Producer

Algeria - ATE
Ukraine - ATE

Number produced

Several prototypes
34 Super Hind Mk. III
10 Mi-24G (Mk. IV)

Designations

Mi-24G (Super Hind Mk. IV in Azerbaijan)

Notable users

Algeria
Azerbaijan

Description

Introduction

The Super Hind Mk. III is an upgrade of the Mi-24 Hind developed in South Africa. In the 1990’s ATE developed an upgrade package for existing Mi-24 combat helicopters aimed at improving their armament, avionics, countermeasures and performance. Various upgrade packages were developed, with the Mk III acquired by Algeria and the Mk IV by Azerbaijan.

Design

The Super Hind combines modern South African weapon systems and avionics with existing Mi-24 airframes. Performance is increased by weight reduction. The Super Hind is not produced as a new aircraft, but an upgrade applied to existing airframes.

Firepower

The gun armament is replaced by a 20mm Vektor F2 autocannon in a new chin turret with external ammunition storage. The chin turret with front mounted sight unit is the most recognizable external upgrade. Anti-tank capability on the Mk III is improved by fitting the long range laser guided ZT-3 Ingwe anti-tank missile. Alternatively the Mk IV is equipped with the Ukranian Baryer anti-tank missile.

Users

The Super Hind Mk III was acquired by Algeria with the first of 34 upgraded aircraft operational in 2001. Azerbaijan acquired the Mk IV upgrade for 10 aircraft, which are designated as Mi-24G.