Russian Su‑25 attack aircraft downed by Ukrainian troops in Donbas
The Chortyca group command in the Donetsk region reported the downing of a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft in the Kramatorsk area. We explain the weapon used and the features of these Russian machines often seen over Ukraine.
The Chortyca group command reported on Telegram that another Russian Su-25 was destroyed on the steppes of the Ukrainian Donbas; in the Kramatorsk sector, the soldiers shot down a Russian Su-25 that was attempting to fire on the positions of the Ukrainian Defence Forces.
Russian Su-25 downed by MANPADS
A short video showing the moment of the Ukrainian attack also appeared online. MANPADS, or man-portable air-defence systems, were used here.
The Ukrainians did not specify which exact MANPADS were used. Since this weapon is often utilised by many units of the defending army, several options exist. In this case, the shootdown was carried out by an anti-aircraft unit of the 28th Mechanised Brigade.
MANPADS allow targeting enemy assets (aircraft, helicopters, drones) with light anti-aircraft missile projectiles. The range depends on the specific model. For example, Polish PPZR Grom and PPZR Piorun sets are used in Ukraine. Their range is 500-5,500 metres and 500-6,500 metres, respectively.
A frequently used Russian aircraft
Su-25s (NATO code Frogfoot) are some of Ukraine's most frequently seen aircraft. They serve the Russian army mainly as machines to support ground troops from the air and often participate in first-line front battles. As such, they are frequently exposed to Ukrainian fire, as confirmed again.
These twin-engine, single-seat attack aircraft were designed in the latter part of the 20th century by the Sukhoi Design Bureau. Each Su-25 is over 15 metres in length and can reach speeds of up to 950 km/h. It weighs about 9,500 kilograms and can operate at a maximum altitude of 7,000 metres.
The primary armament of this attack aircraft is a 30mm GS-30-2 cannon. It can also carry suspended armaments (up to 4,000 kilograms), including bombs weighing up to 500 kilograms, unguided and guided rockets, and air-to-air missiles for self-defence.
