Ukraine downs Russian attack jet amidst escalating Donetsk conflict
The Ukrainian army reported shooting down a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft in the Donetsk region. This is another aircraft destroyed by air defence in the area.
Aviation plays a crucial role in armed conflicts, enabling quick and precise strikes on strategic enemy targets and providing significant support for ground forces. Control of airspace can shape the course of an entire military campaign, influencing mobility, logistics, and the effectiveness of operations.
The Russian Federation still possesses many aircraft but is also experiencing increasing losses.
Russians lost Su-25 aircraft
The Su-25 aircraft was shot down by the 110th Separate Mechanised Brigade air defence, named after Gen. Marek Bezruczko. The unit posted a message on Facebook, saying that the Russian crash sequence continues, with outstanding work by the shooters of the 110th brigade. On that day, they have struck down another Su-25.
Su-25 is valuable support for Russian forces
The Su-25 is a Soviet twin-engine jet attack aircraft from the late 20th century. Its first flight occurred in 1975, but mass production did not begin until 1978. According to the latest estimates, the Russian Federation may still have nearly 200 such aircraft.
The aircraft is equipped with two turbojet engines, which enable it to reach a speed of about 950 km/h. The machine measures over 15 meters in length and weighs 10,000 kg. The Su-25's maximum range in its base version is about 510 km, but it can be fitted with additional fuel tanks.
It can carry weapons on 10 external mounting points with a total weight of up to 4,300 kg: bombs, unguided rockets, guided missiles, and also gun and bomb pods.
