Although the KA-252 designation suggested a development of the KA-25, the replacement was substantially different despite its similar appearance. Stage B tests concluded in December 1979. The Kiev-class program created an immediate need for a helicopter the KA-25 could not provide: Kiev, Minsk, Novorossiysk, and Baku, later Admiral Gorshkov, all depended on credible embarked aviation. The first squadron began conversion in 1979 and received aircraft in 1980. Formal acceptance followed in 1981, while testing and fine-tuning continued until about 1987.
Chapter · 7:19-9:48
Kiev-class carriers drive KA-27 service entry
The Soviets accepted the KA-27 before fine-tuning was complete because the Kiev-class carriers needed credible embarked aviation.