Turkey upgraded Soviet Su-25 to Su-25ML level with Turkish missiles

The maiden Azerbaijani Su-25ML aircraft, upgraded by Turkish Aerospace Industries [TUSAŞ], has sailed through its tests with flying colors. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Defense announced the successful delivery and testing of the first TAI-enhanced Su-25 aircraft. It was reported that the test flights executed by Azerbaijani fighter pilots were successfully conducted. 

Aging Soviet Su-25 got Mk 82 and Mk 83 bombs guidance integration
Photo credit: SavunmaSanayiST.com

It has been confirmed by Azerbaijan that the testing of smart bombs and missiles, including the Turkish-made Teber and KGK integrated into the aircraft, have been finalized. The results of these studies have been favorably reviewed by military experts. 

The Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan and TAI inked a contract for the modernization of Azerbaijani Su-25 aircraft at the 16th International Defense Industry Fair. The modernization process, which commenced roughly a year ago, has now reached a significant milestone. 

From Su-25 to Su-25ML

The Su-25 aircraft set to be modernized by TAI will carry the new moniker Su-25 ML [Modern LAÇİN]. The modernization will center around key enhancements such as an extended range via an opening wing, the introduction of new day-night all-weather surveillance systems, and the integration of encrypted ANS/KKS software support. 

The Turkish modernization of the Azerbaijani Su-25 fighters will facilitate joint combat operations with the Turkish F-16C Block 40 and F 4E / 2020. Additionally, the Azerbaijani Su-25 will be equipped with a selectable angle of attack, the capacity to assault targets, track points, and will be compatible with MIL-STD 1760. 

The Turkish KGK missile integrated into the Su-25 boasts a maximum range of 60 nautical miles [110 km+] when launched from a high altitude and a maximum range of 20 nautical miles [37 km+] when launched from a lower altitude.

Soviet Su-25

Azerbaijan has 11 Su-25 attack fighters, which is 45% of the country’s entire fighter air force. in addition to the Su-25, the MiG-29, and MiG-21 also fly under the Azerbaijani flag. That is why the Su-25, despite its outdated design, is important for the defense of Azerbaijan.

The Su-25 is a single-seat, twin-engine jet aircraft developed in the Soviet Union by Sukhoi. It was designed to provide close air support for ground troops. Su-25 also attacks enemy ground targets such tanks and armored vehicles. The Su-25 has a maximum speed of 975 km/h [606 mph] and a range of 1,300 km [808 miles]. It can operate at a maximum altitude of 7,000 meters [22,966 feet] and has a service ceiling of 10,000 meters [32,808 feet].

Ukrainian Su-25 Frogfoot was shot down by air defense over DPR
Photo credit: Cem Dogut

The Su-25 is armed with a 30mm GSh-30-2 cannon, as well as a variety of missiles and bombs. It can carry up to 4,400 kg [9,700 lbs] of weapons on 10 external hardpoints. The Su-25 has a length of 15.53 meters [50.9 feet]. Su-25 has wingspan of 14.36 meters [47.1 feet], and a height of 4.80 meters [15.7 feet]. It has a maximum takeoff weight of 19,000 kg [41,888 lbs] and a fuel capacity of 4,500 liters [1,189 gallons].

The Su-25 has been used in several conflicts around the world, including the Soviet-Afghan War, the Gulf War, and the Syrian Civil War. It has proven to be a reliable and effective aircraft for close air support and ground attack missions.

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