The Kamov Ka-25 (NATO reporting name: Hormone) is a Soviet naval helicopter that entered service in 1967. It was designed primarily for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations from Soviet Navy warships.
Design
The Ka-25 features Kamov's signature coaxial contra-rotating rotor system, which eliminates the need for a tail rotor and makes the helicopter more compact — a critical advantage for shipboard operations. The aircraft has a crew of two and can operate from the deck of destroyers, cruisers, and aircraft carriers.
Variants
- Ka-25BSh (Hormone-A) — Primary ASW variant with search radar, dipping sonar, sonobuoys, and torpedoes or depth charges
- Ka-25Ts (Hormone-B) — Over-the-horizon targeting variant, providing mid-course guidance for anti-ship missiles
- Ka-25PS (Hormone-C) — Search and rescue / utility variant
Specifications
- Crew: 2
- Engines: 2 x Glushenkov GTD-3F turboshafts, 900 hp each
- Maximum speed: 220 km/h (137 mph)
- Range: 400 km (250 miles)
- Service ceiling: 4,500 m (14,760 ft)
Service
The Ka-25 served extensively with the Soviet Navy and was exported to India, Syria, Vietnam, and Yugoslavia. It was replaced in Soviet/Russian service by the more capable Kamov Ka-27 (NATO: Helix) beginning in the 1980s.