The first Russian Mi-28UB advanced training/attack helicopters have rolled off the production line at Rostvertol, part of the Russian Helicopters Corporation.

At present, the new machines are undergoing user acceptance testing. According to the plan eight gunships will be delivered to the Russian Defense Ministry by the end of the year, the company said in a press release.

"Production of the first Mi-28UB batch is an extremely important event not only for Rostvertol and Russian Helicopters but also for our colleagues from the Russian Ministry of Defense. The delivery of modernized Night Hunters will begin soon. … This dual control helicopter breaks new ground for training flight personnel in machines of this type," Andrey Boginsky, CEO of the Russian Helicopters holding, said.

The Mi-28UB is the combat training modification of the Mi-28NE Night Hunter.

According to the company, the Mi-28UB can be used not only for training missions, but also for search and destroy operations.

The main difference between the Mi-28UB and the original Night Hunter is a dual control system that allows for piloting the helicopter from both the command cockpit and the operator’s seat.

A number of other changes were made, including improved avionics and communication equipment.

The Mi-28UB keeps the maneuvering capabilities of the Mi-28 and can operate day or night. In particular, the new gunship can be used for fire support for ground forces and anti-tank defense.

The helicopter also has improved armored protection and is  equipped with a powerful weapons system.