Aircraft comparison

Comparsion between Turkish T929 ATAK-II and Russia Ka-52

The Turkish T929 ATAK-II and the Russian Ka-52 are both formidable attack helicopters that have garnered significant attention in the realm of military aviation. Representing cutting-edge technology and advanced capabilities, these rotorcraft serve as vital components of their respective nation’s aerial forces.

In this comparison, we delve into the design, performance, weaponry, and operational characteristics of Both aircraft, offering insights into their strengths, limitations, and the strategic implications of their deployment. By examining these two helicopters side by side, we gain a comprehensive understanding of their role in modern warfare and the dynamics of competition and cooperation within the global defense industry.

Turkish Aerospace Industries is developing a twin-engine, heavy assault helicopter called the TAI T929 ATAK 2. The helicopter is designed for attack, electronic warfare, and reconnaissance missions in all-weather environments in both day and night conditions.The ATAK II, which made its maiden flight on April 28, 2023, is currently in development. It is projected that the Turkish Army will receive it starting in 2025.

The Ka-52, also known as the Alligator, is a cutting-edge attack helicopter designed by Russia’s Kamov Design Bureau. It is meant to excel in a variety of roles, including reconnaissance, close air support, and anti-armor combat. It also serves as an icon of Russian helicopter engineering, demonstrating outstanding skills and versatility in combat operations.

The TAI T929 ATAK 2 and the Russian KA-52 are both attack helicopters designed for military purposes. Here’s a comparison between the two helicopters.

Armament: The T929 ATAK 2 is equipped with a 20mm chin-mounted cannon, air-to-air missiles, air-to-ground missiles, rockets, and guided munitions.while Ka-52 is equipped with a range of armament options, including anti-tank guided missiles, air-to-air missiles, unguided rockets, and a 30mm automatic cannon.

Engine: The Turkish T929 ATAK-II, propelled by two TV3-117 turboshaft engines, each generating 1,864.25 kW (2,500.00 hp) of power, contrasts with the Russian Ka-52, which relies on 2 × Klimov VK-2500 turboshaft engines, boasting 1,800 kW (2,400 shp) each.

In terms of dimensions, ATAK 2 is slightly smaller, with a length of 13.45 meters and a height of 3.96 meters. Whereas Ka-52 measures 16.00 meters in length and 4.93 meters in height.

Speed: In terms of speed, the ATAK 2 boasts a maximum speed of 318 km/h (198 mph, 172 kn), slightly surpassing the Ka-52’s maximum speed of about 310 knots (574 km/h).

However, the cruise speed of the ATAK 2 at 314 km/h (195 mph, 170 kn) is notably faster than the Ka-52’s 270 km/h (170 mph, 150 kn).

Additionally, the ATAK 2 has a maximum takeoff weight of 10,000 kg (22,046 lb), slightly lower than the Ka-52’s 10,800 kg (23,810 lb).

Finally, in terms of service ceiling, the ATAK 2 surpasses the Ka-52 with a service ceiling of 6,096 m (20,000 ft), compared to the Ka-52’s 5,500 m (18,000 ft).

The T929 helicopter is equipped with tandem seats, an asymmetrical weapons bay, a large capacity for ammunition, a low IR signature, a digital cockpit, ballistic protection, better avionics, and the potential to engage in electronic warfare and countermeasure operations.

The Ka-52 is equipped with a “Phazotron” cockpit radio-locator, allowing flights in adverse meteorological conditions and at night. The necessary information acquired by this radio-locator is transferred to the cockpit’s multi-functional display screen. The Ka-52 has a self-defense package that comprises flares and chaff to deflect incoming missiles, radar and laser warning systems, and other defenses.

The initiation of the T929 ATAK II’s development gained significant momentum in 2019, driven by the vision of providing Turkey with its own helicopter tailored for the national army. Beyond serving domestic needs, the helicopter has now emerged as a potential export asset. This newfound global appeal is particularly noteworthy as the T929 ATAK II competes with high-cost American rotorcraft, positioning itself as a competitive and cost-effective alternative in the international market.

KA-52 helicopter is the only one in the world having a certain technologically advanced feature that is not offered by any other helicopter. A pilot ejection device is also equipped with this helicopter in case of an emergency landing or collision. The seats are equipped with rocket-assisted ejection systems, and each crew member has a separate ejection mechanism.

Aircraft comparison

Comparison of the Indian built Tejas MK1A vs South korean FA 50

Today, we’ll explore two remarkable light combat aircraft: the Tejas MK1A and the FA-50 Golden Eagle. Both fighters are designed for versatility, making them ideal for various missions, from air-to-air combat to ground support.

The Tejas MK1A, developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in India, and the FA-50, a product of Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), are both advanced aircraft equipped with modern technology and features.

10 Fascinating Facts About India’s AMCA Fighter Jet

In this Article, we will compare these two fighters in terms of their specifications, performance, capabilities, and roles in modern air forces. Let’s dive in and see how they stack up against each other!

Tejas is the second supersonic combat aircraft developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), following the HF-24 Marut. It took its first flight in 2001 and was inducted into service with the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2015. Currently, Tejas holds the distinction of being the smallest and lightest aircraft in its class of supersonic combat jets.

On the other hand, the FA-50 is South Korea’s first indigenous supersonic aircraft and is one of the few supersonic trainers in the world. Development of the T-50 began in the late 1990s, with its maiden flight taking place in 2002.

Russia Seeks Talks with India, Offers Tu-160 Bombers at Unbeatable Prices

The FA-50 boasts a higher production rate compared to the Tejas. Over the past 15 years, Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) has produced nearly 200 variants of the FA-50, while Tejas has seen a lower production output.

In terms of international sales, the FA-50 is actively in service with multiple countries, including Indonesia, Iraq, the Philippines, Thailand, and Poland. Notably, Malaysia opted for the FA-50 over the Tejas, citing the FA-50’s strong service record as a key factor in their decision.

Here’s a SPECIFICATION of the Tejas and FA-50

Length: The Tejas measures 13.2 m (43 ft 4 in), making it slightly longer than the FA-50, which is 13.14 m (43 ft 1 in).

Max Takeoff Weight: The Tejas has a maximum takeoff weight of 13,500 kg (29,762 lb), compared to the FA-50’s lighter weight of 10,722 kg (23,638 lb).

Fuel Capacity: The Tejas has an internal fuel capacity of 3,060 liters (810 US gallons), while the FA-50 has a slightly lower internal fuel capacity of 2,655 liters (701 US gallons).

Powerplant: Both aircraft are powered by General Electric F404 turbofan engines, but the Tejas utilizes the F404-GE-IN20 variant with 48.9 kN (11,000 lbf) thrust dry and 85 kN (19,000 lbf) with afterburner. The FA-50 features the F404-GE-102 variant, producing 53.07 kN (11,930 lbf) thrust dry and 78.7 kN (17,700 lbf) with afterburner.

Maximum Speed: The Tejas has a maximum speed of 2,220 km/h (Mach 1.8), which is significantly faster than the FA-50’s maximum speed of 1,837.5 km/h (Mach 1.5).

Combat Range: The Tejas has a combat range of 739 km (459 mi), whereas the FA-50 has a much longer range of 1,851 km (1,150 mi).

Hardpoints: The Tejas features 9 hardpoints with a total capacity of 5,300 kg, while the FA-50 has 7 hardpoints capable of carrying up to 5,400 kg of payload.

Cost: The Tejas is priced at approximately $40 million per unit, whereas the FA-50 ranges between $30 million to $40 million per unit, making the FA-50 potentially more cost-effective depending on the variant chosen.

Weapons
When it comes to weaponry, the Tejas MK1A offers a wider range of options compared to the FA-50 Golden Eagle. The Tejas MK1A is equipped with beyond-visual-range (BVR) missiles, allowing it to engage targets at greater distances, enhancing its combat effectiveness in air superiority missions. Additionally, it can carry precision-guided munitions for accurate strikes against ground targets, as well as standoff weapons, which can be launched from a distance to minimize exposure to enemy defenses. This diverse armament enables the Tejas to perform a variety of roles, from air-to-air combat to ground support.

In contrast, the FA-50 also features a respectable armament capability but has a more limited selection. It can carry air-to-air missiles like the AIM-9 Sidewinder and AIM-120 AMRAAM, as well as precision-guided bombs. However, its focus leans more toward close air support and light strike missions rather than the extensive versatility that the Tejas offers.

Naval Variant
The Tejas Mk1A has a naval variant designed for carrier operations, which is still in development. This version includes upgrades like a nose droop for better visibility during landings and takeoffs, a strengthened undercarriage, and an arrestor hook for safe landings on aircraft carriers.

In contrast, the FA-50 does not have a naval variant. While it’s versatile for different missions, it’s not designed for carrier operations, limiting its flexibility compared to the naval Tejas, which can operate from both land and carriers.