The Alligator is the twin seat version of the combat helicopter Kamov 50 Hokum which has been under development for the Soviet Armed Forces for about a decade. The KA-52 is characterized through a new cockpit with two side-by-side seats. The front section of the fuselage was also completely re-designed to accomodate the vast assortment of electronic and radar equipment as well as night vision equipment to enable the use of a substantial assortment of weapon systems.