DETAILS: 5 Dead As UPDF Chopper Crashes In Mogadishu

A Uganda Peoples’ Defence Forces (UPDF) Mi-24 helicopter, tail number AUO-015, crash-landed on Wednesday morning at approximately 7:30 a.m., just 200 metres east of the North Ramp at Mogadishu International Airport.

The helicopter was conducting a routine combat escort mission as part of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) when the tragic incident occurred.

According to official statements from both AUSSOM and Uganda’s Ministry of Defence, the helicopter had eight people on board, including six crew members.

The impact triggered a detonation of onboard munitions, resulting in significant damage to nearby structures and injuring three civilians.

Tragically, five of the eight personnel on board died in the crash. The pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survived, though they sustained serious injuries and severe burns.

The injured, including the three civilians, were immediately evacuated to the AUSSOM Sector 1 Level II Hospital for emergency treatment.

Emergency response was swift, with a joint team of firefighters from Mogadishu International Airport and the United Nations, supported by AUSSOM Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) experts, taking charge of the crash site and conducting rescue operations.

Uganda is a leading contributor to the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM), which currently maintains a force of over 11,000 personnel.

The mission plays a critical role in assisting Somalia’s national army in fighting al Shabaab, an al Qaeda-linked insurgent group responsible for deadly attacks across the region.

About the Mi-24 “Hind”

The Mi-24 is a Soviet/Russian-made attack helicopter with dual capabilities for troop transport and close air support. Designed in the late 1960s and introduced into service in 1972, it is known for its heavy armor and formidable firepower, often referred to as a “flying tank.”

It can carry up to eight troops in addition to its combat crew and weapon systems, making it a versatile battlefield platform still widely used around the world.

Key Features of the Mi-24:

• Attack and Transport Hybrid: Can carry up to eight fully equipped troops while delivering massive firepower.

• Heavy Armament: Equipped with anti-tank missiles, unguided rockets, bombs, and a chin-mounted 12.7mm or 23mm cannon.

• Armored for War: The cockpit and fuselage are reinforced with armor capable of withstanding 12.7mm rounds, and the rotor blades are also armored.

• Fast and Aggressive: With cruise speeds up to 200 mph, it’s one of the fastest attack helicopters of its kind.

• Upgraded for Night Ops: Though originally designed for daylight combat, modern variants feature night-fighting optics.

• Global Reach: Exported to over 50 countries, the Mi-24 is one of the most widely used and combat-tested helicopters in the world.

Historical Footprint:

• Vietnam War Influence: Inspired by the U.S. use of helicopters for mobility and firepower.

• Soviet-Afghan War Icon: Earned fearsome reputation during the conflict, prompting the U.S. to arm Afghan fighters with Stinger missiles.

• Still in Combat: Despite its age, it remains active in global conflict zones and continues to serve as a symbol of rugged, versatile air power.

In a statement signed by Maj. Gen. Felix Kulayigye, Director of Defence Public Information, the Uganda Defence Forces expressed condolences to the families of the deceased and wished the injured a speedy recovery.

“An official investigation is underway to determine the cause of the crash,” the statement read.