Social media images and videos show Iran operating Russian-made Mi-28NE attack helicopters at Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport in early 2026, following earlier Iranian statements about planned acquisitions of Russian Su-35 fighters, Yak-130 aircraft, and Mi-28 helicopters.
Recent photos and videos circulating on social media suggest that Iran has received Russian-made Mi-28NE attack helicopters, with aircraft reportedly spotted at Tehran’s Mehrabad Airport and observed conducting test flights over the capital in early 2026.
Images show Mi-28NE helicopters inside and near hangars at Mehrabad, where assembly activities were reportedly taking place after delivery from Russia. Spotter footage released in early January 2026 also appears to show the helicopters flying over Tehran during what are believed to be initial test flights.
The helicopters seen in Iran carry a digital camouflage pattern and appear equipped with rotor blades associated with the Mi-28NM variant, along with an updated dust-protection system designed to improve performance in harsh environments.
Iran has not officially confirmed a contract for the purchase of Mi-28NE helicopters, and the number delivered remains unclear. However, open-source reporting suggests that as many as six aircraft may have been transferred so far.
In November 2023, Iranian Deputy Defense Minister Brigadier General Mahdi Farahi told Tasnim News Agency that negotiations had concluded for the acquisition of Su-35 fighter jets, Yak-130 training aircraft, and Mi-28 helicopters from Russia, though no delivery schedule was announced at the time.
In early January 2026, Tasnim correspondent Mohammad Taheri reported unofficially that the first Mi-28 helicopters had arrived in Iran. The recent imagery and flight videos over Tehran appear to support those earlier claims.
The Mi-28NE is the export version of Russia’s Mi-28 attack helicopter, designed primarily for anti-armor and close air support missions. It is armed with a 30mm cannon, rockets, and anti-tank guided missiles. The apparent use of Mi-28NM rotor components and improved filtration systems indicates the aircraft delivered to Iran may include elements of newer Russian upgrades.
Mehrabad Airport in Tehran serves both civilian and military aviation, and the presence of the helicopters there, along with test flights over the city, suggests that integration and acceptance procedures are underway.
The reported transfer of Mi-28NE helicopters highlights the continued expansion of defense cooperation between Russia and Iran.
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