The first tests of new helicopter based on the Mi-28N version have been under way since 2016. On March 21, 2019, the Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation announced that they have started tests of the Mi-28NM helicopter´s prototype in difficult weather and climate conditions. The new version has received the nickname "Night Super Hunter" (ночной суперохотник). The Russian newspaper "Izvestia" reported that the prototype was deployed to KHMEMIM airbase in SYRIA. The main objective is to verify the functioning of the modernized control and weapon system, navigation complex and also helmets with so-called augmented reality function. This feature allows to project data to the helmet's plastic protective cover, using the laser beam, about helicopter´s status, video from on-board sensors, and situational information. In the case of reduced visibility, a 3D image of the surrounding space can be projected to the helmet. One of the main components of the upgrade package is the target acquisition radar above the main rotor. The antenna unit is located above the carrier rotor in the radar-permeable housing.
Another important feature installed on the modernized Mi-28NE helicopter will be a guided missile with a designation "Izdelye 305". It is designed to destroy armored equipment and fortified installations of the enemy at a distance of more than 25 km. It will be possible to install eight such missiles on a single helicopter. Target guidance is provided by an on-board inertial navigation system to which data is fed before the helicopter starts. The helicopter obtains the coordinates of the targets from its own guidance systems or from the so-called "unified command system". The missile is equipped with a self-guiding seeker head to detect the target in the last phase of the flight. Sensors in the missile's head allow the pilot to receive real-time image of missile flight and target hit. The transmitted signal is fed through an encrypted information-control channel.
The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation has already concluded an agreement with the manufacturer of helicopters Mi-28NM on the unit price for the needs of the Russian Armed Forces. According to a statement by the Deputy Defense Minister of the Russian Federation, Aleksei KRIVORUCHKO, work is underway to conclude a contract not only for the Mi-28NM helicopters but also the Ka-52. Mi-28NM helicopter will be produced in Rostov-on-Don.