Iranian Air Force Deploys Russian Mil-28 Helicopters Amid Third Gulf War
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TEHRAN, April 13, 2026 — Russian-supplied Mil-28 attack helicopters operated by the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Air Force were observed flying over central Iran on Saturday, marking a significant deployment of heavy rotary-wing assets during the ongoing Third Gulf War.
The aircraft were spotted in the afternoon hours near the capital region, conducting what appeared to be coordinated flight patterns. The sighting represents the first confirmed operational use of the Mil-28, a heavily armored attack helicopter designed for close air support and anti-armor missions, by Iranian forces in the current conflict.
The deployment comes as the Third Gulf War enters a critical phase, with regional tensions escalating following weeks of cross-border strikes and naval confrontations. The introduction of the Mil-28 fleet signals a shift in Iranian military strategy, moving toward more aggressive air-to-ground capabilities in the central theater.
Iranian state media did not immediately comment on the specific mission parameters of the helicopters. However, military analysts note that the Mil-28 is equipped with advanced avionics and a range of precision-guided munitions, making it a potent asset for ground support operations. The aircraft's presence in central Iran suggests preparations for potential ground offensives or defensive maneuvers against advancing coalition forces.
The Russian Federation has been a key supplier of military hardware to Tehran in recent years, with the Mil-28 transfer forming part of a broader defense cooperation agreement. The helicopters were reportedly delivered in late 2025, following months of technical training and logistical integration by Russian military advisors.
Western intelligence agencies have expressed concern over the deployment, citing the Mil-28's capability to operate in contested airspace and its effectiveness against armored vehicles. The aircraft's appearance in the central region raises questions about the scope of Iranian air operations and the potential for expanded conflict zones.
Coalition forces in the region have not yet responded publicly to the sighting. However, increased air defense activity has been detected in the Persian Gulf and surrounding airspace, indicating heightened readiness levels.
The status of the Mil-28 fleet remains unclear, with no official confirmation from Iranian military command regarding the number of aircraft deployed or their intended targets. Observers are monitoring the situation closely as the conflict continues to evolve.
As of Saturday evening, no further details have emerged regarding the helicopters' movements or mission objectives. The deployment underscores the intensifying nature of the Third Gulf War and the growing involvement of external military powers in the region's escalating hostilities.