Mil Mi-24

Mikhail Mil called the Mi-24 concept a flying infantry combat vehicle: the helicopter was to clear the way for the assault force and to carry it as well. The crew is protected by armour, the tandem cockpit with double glazing withstands heavy machine-gun hits, and the wing carries guided missiles and rocket pods. The Crocodile received its baptism of fire in Afghanistan, where it became the main striking force of army aviation. The Mi-24 was exported to dozens of countries and fought in most conflicts of the late twentieth century. The special A-10 version set the helicopter world speed record of 368 km/h, which stood for eight years. On display is an Mi-24V with a full weapons set on the pylons; the troop cabin is open for viewing.