The Mi-8 Hip was developed to replace the aging Mi-4 transport helicopter and is capable of both military transport and helicopter gunship missions. Its gunship configuration is fitted with external flight deck armor and two stubby weapon racks. Typical armaments include 57mm S-5 rockets, 80mm S-8 rockets, a chin mounted 12.7 mm machine gun, and AT-2 "Swatter" anti-tank missiles.