INTERNATIONAL: A Ka-52 "Alligator" combat-reconnaissance and attack helicopter is seen for the first time during flight testing conducted by the Russian Air Force of the Southern Military District at a military aerodrome in the Rostov region near the Ukrainian border, Russia on Wednesday, January 19, 2022.

The new helicopters are a modernised version of an older KA-50 'Black Shark' type. According to the Russian Ministry of Defence, the latest avionics and improved battle assault systems allow the helicopters to engage in combat at any time of the day and in any weather conditions.

The arrival of new 'Alligators' comes amid escalating tensions on the Ukrainian border where Russia massed tens of thousands of troops, raising fears of an invasion and prompting warnings from the West.