Moscow – The Russian Ministry of Defence has released the first official footage showing a Dan-T jet-powered cruise missile launched from a Mi-28NM “Night Hunter” attack helicopter during combat operations in Ukraine.
According to the ministry, the helicopter crew received coordinates of a Ukrainian Armed Forces UAV control post and drone operator positions before takeoff. The target was located in the area of responsibility of Russia’s “West” grouping of forces. The crew launched the Dan-T against the designated coordinates. Russian reconnaissance later reported that the target had been hit. The helicopter subsequently returned to its base airfield.
The footage shows the Mi-28NM taking off with two missiles mounted on its side pylons. It captures one missile separating from the left pylon, followed by activation of its jet engine.
Dan-T Missile Specifications and Capabilities
The Dan-T is a jet-powered munition developed from the earlier Dan-M aerial target drone. It is designed for one-way strike missions against fixed or pre-designated targets.
According to specifications released by Russian defence exporter Rosoboronexport, the missile has a launch weight of approximately 268 kg, carries a warhead weighing up to 130 kg, and reaches a maximum speed of around 500 km/h. Its reported range is up to 450 km, although some assessments place it near 500 km.
The missile uses a combination of inertial navigation and satellite navigation (INS/GNSS) to follow predetermined flight routes. It can also operate at low altitudes.
The related S8000 Banderol munition carries a smaller warhead of approximately 50 kg. Reports indicate that the Dan-T is around 35% cheaper than the Banderol.
Mi-28NM Integration Expands Launch Options
The Dan-T and Banderol were previously associated with ground-based launch systems and fixed-wing aircraft. Reported compatible platforms include the Su-25SM3, Su-30SM, Su-34 and Su-57, alongside the Mi-28 helicopter.
The Mi-28NM is a modernized version of the Mi-28 attack helicopter, featuring upgraded radar, avionics and engines. It is designed to improve all-weather and night-fighting capabilities.
The latest footage provides the first official visual confirmation of the Dan-T's launch from the Mi-28NM. Its integration gives Russian army aviation another option for deploying long-range guided munitions from rotary-wing aircraft.
The development also reflects Russia's wider effort to expand production and use of relatively low-cost strike weapons alongside its existing long-range missile systems.
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