Ukrainian forces down russian SU‑25 in Donetsk region

A recording has appeared on social media confirming the downing of another Russian Su-25 attack aircraft. We explain how this happened and what characterizes the Su-25.

According to disclosed information, the Russian attack aircraft was shot down in the Donetsk region by soldiers from the 110th Independent Mechanized Brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. The incident occurred on July 23 at around 6:00 AM Eastern Time. Videos showing the moment of the Ukrainians' attack and the crash of the Russian machine, recorded by a nearby drone, have surfaced online.

Russian sources connected with their military aviation confirm the loss of the Su-25. They also suggest that the pilot survived and was evacuated from the scene.

Although neither side details the incident, one of the videos clearly shows that Ukrainians used MANPADS, portable anti-aircraft missile systems. These handheld rocket launchers allow targets to be struck with light anti-aircraft missiles. The range depends on the specific MANPADS model, e.g., in the Polish PPZR Grom and PPZR Piorun, it is respectively 0.5-5.5 km and 0.5-6.5 km.

The Su-25 is one of the most frequently seen Russian machines in Ukraine. It is a twin-engine, single-seat attack aircraft from the late 20th century, developed by Sukhoi's design bureau. It measures over 15 metres in length and weighs around 10,000 kg. It can reach speeds up to 950 km/h and climb to an altitude of up to 7,000 metres.

The Su-25's primary armament is the GSz-30-2 30 mm cannon, but the machine can also carry suspended armament (bombs, unguided and guided rocket missiles, or air-to-air missiles for self-defence) on wing pylons. Its total weight can reach up to 4,000 kg.