Ministry of Defense intends to acquire a batch of Mi-35M helicopters – an export version of legendary Mi-24, Izvestiya reports.

These helicopters are much easier to master and they may be put into operation faster than the advanced Mi-28Ns, a source close to the defense industry complex reported.

The first Мi-35Мs, which are being delivered since this year, will be used for support of Special Operations Forces (SOF). The deficit of all-weather helicopters is still exists in the Russian air forces, but such vehicles are absolutely necessary for supporting the SOF. «There are not enough state-of-the-art Ka-52 and Mi-28N helicopters and it is harder to master them, thus we will need more time to achieve the tactical efficiency of our units. Мi-35М is the vehicle, created on the basis of reliable and refined platform, its tactical efficiency is much higher », - said the source.

He also added that the Ministry of Defense has already ordered more than 20 helicopters of the type and is studying the possibilities of further purchases.

It is planned to form a special air force unit equipped with transport and combat helicopters.  Such unit is capable of solving similar problems as the 160th special operation aviation regiment of USAF. «This aviation regiment is equipped with all-weather helicopters able to air land the troops and support them with fire in any conditions except hurricane. As a result our special forces will be able to complete objectives faster and will have the initiative» - said the source.