Ukraine unveils upgraded Su‑25 with French AASM bombs

Ukrainian General Sergiy Holubtsov revealed in an interview in June that work on this type of modernization was nearing completion. However, despite the passing weeks, there was a lack of further information and, particularly, photos. These have now appeared, as noted by the Ukrainian service Defence Express.

Ukrainian analysts suggest that the Su-25 modernization likely used a solution similar to that implemented in the MiG-29, the first Ukrainian aircraft adapted for AASM Hammer bombs. These conclusions are based on the analysis of the published photos. However, it's still unclear whether and how changes were made to the Su-25's onboard equipment to integrate it with the AASM Hammer (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range).

The Su-25 is an aircraft frequently seen over Ukraine. It can reach a maximum speed of about 590 mph. It is relatively small, measuring about 49 feet in length, but can carry armament weighing over 4.4 tons. These are most often air-to-ground missiles, including Kh-23 and Kh-25M. AASM Hammer provides these aircraft with significantly enhanced capabilities for eliminating enemy positions.

Conceptually, AASM Hammer is similar to the American JDAM-ER modules mounted on traditional unguided bombs, although the differences include interchangeable guidance heads and a rocket booster. The French solution was designed to integrate with standard Mk 82/83/84 bombs weighing approximately 500, 1000, and 2000 pounds, respectively.

Defence Express emphasized that it's currently difficult to specify how many Su-25s have been adapted for AASM Hammer. Each adapted machine, however, offers an advantage over Russian Su-25s, which have not yet been modified for modern guided weapons.