Su25

The Sukhoi Su-25, NATO reporting name Frogfoot, is a Soviet-origin twin-engine, single-seat close air support aircraft developed by Sukhoi. It was designed to operate at low altitude, deliver precision and area munitions, and survive heavy ground fire while supporting ground forces. Development began in the late 1960s to replace earlier ground-attack aircraft, with the prototype flying in 1975 and entry into service with the Soviet Air Forces in 1978. The design emphasizes durability, ease of maintenance, and survivability in battlefield conditions, including an armored cockpit and robust airframe.

The Su-25 is optimized for close air support and anti-tank roles, capable of delivering a wide range of ordnance. It typically carries a fixed internal 30 mm cannon and can deploy bombs, rockets, and air-to-ground missiles on external pylons. Its avionics and defensive systems have been updated in various modernizations to improve navigation, targeting, and survivability.

Variants include the base Su-25, the two-seat Su-25UB trainer, and later modernized versions such as Su-25BM/SM series featuring upgraded avionics and precision-guidance capabilities. The aircraft has remained in service with several post-Soviet states and other operators, often undergoing upgrades to extend its operational life.

Operational history spans conflicts from the late Cold War through the post-Soviet period, including extensive use by the Soviet Union, Russia, and allied forces in Afghanistan, Chechnya, Syria, and other theaters. The Su-25 has proven valued for its ruggedness, simple maintenance, and effectiveness in providing direct air support to ground forces, despite the advent of more modern combat aircraft.