The Ka-52 can be recognized from the Ka-50 by a wider nose and twin-seat cockpit. Seats are arranged side-by-side. This helicopter can be used as a trainer. Both pilots have full controls of the helicopter. Such arrangement also simplifies work during combat. The Ka-52 shares 85% of it's airframe, parts, components and systems with the Ka-50. Most of the changes were made to the cockpit.

The Kamov Ka-52 Alligator is fitted with uprated TV3-117VMA turboshaft engines. The Hokum-B has unique maneuverability, which was derived from it's two coaxial contra-rotating main rotors. It is among the most maneuverable helicopters in the world.

Armor of the Alligator withstands hits from 23-mm projectiles. Pilots are seated in ejection seats. It can also fly when one engine is disabled.

The Hokum-B has a battlefield management system. It can exchange data with with similar helicopters or other helicopter types, as well as third party sources. This helicopter is also intended as an aerial command post for a group of helicopters. It provides target detection and coordinates the attacks.

The Ka-52 retained all combat capabilities of it's predecessor. It is armed with a side-mounted 30-mm cannon. There are six external hardpoints for different combinations of weapons, including anti-tank missiles (Vikhr, Vikhr-M), air-to-air missiles (Igla-V), rocket pods, bombs. For anti-armor missions it is armed with up to 12 Vikhr ATGMs. These have a range of up to 8 000 m and penetrate 950 mm of armor.