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Sukhoi Su-25

The Sukhoi Su-25 is a Soviet-designed, single-seat, twin-engine attack aircraft built for close air support and ground-attack missions.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 27, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Sukhoi Su-25 is a Soviet-designed, single-seat, twin-engine attack aircraft built for close air support and ground-attack missions. It has served with Soviet, Russian, and other air forces since the 1980s and is known by the NATO reporting name "Frogfoot" and the Russian nickname "Grach".

Development

The Su-25 was developed by Sukhoi in the Soviet Union during the 1970s as a dedicated battlefield attack aircraft. It first flew in 1975 and entered service in the early 1980s.

Design and role

The aircraft was built for close air support, ground attack, and attacks on tactical targets near the front line. Sources describe it as rugged, with armoured protection for the pilot and systems intended to improve battlefield survivability.

Variants

Reported variants include the Su-25K export version, the two-seat Su-25UB trainer, the export Su-25UBK, and the Su-39 anti-tank variant. Some sources also mention the Su-28 trainer designation.

Operational history

The Su-25 has been used by Soviet successor states and other operators since the Cold War era. It has seen service in multiple conflicts around the world and remains active in several air forces.

Key facts

  • Designed specifically for close air support missions.
  • The aircraft is single-seat and twin-engine.
  • It features titanium cockpit armouring for survivability.
  • Later variants include two-seat trainers and export models.
  • The Su-25 remains in service with multiple operators.
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Canadian context

The Su-25 is mainly relevant to Canadian readers through general military aviation history, Cold War studies, and coverage of modern conflicts involving Russian and Ukrainian air power.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Su-25 used for?
It is used for close air support, ground attack, and attacks on tactical targets near the battlefield.
What is the Su-25 NATO reporting name?
Its NATO reporting name is Frogfoot.
How many crew does the Su-25 have?
The standard Su-25 has a crew of one.
When did the Su-25 first fly?
It first flew in 1975.
Is the Su-25 still in service?
Yes. Sources indicate it remains in service with Russia and other operators.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sukhoi_Su-25
    Supports: Basic specifications, crew, dimensions, engines, performance, and general aircraft identification.
  2. SKYbrary — https://skybrary.aero/aircraft/su25
    Supports: Role, service entry, close air support mission, armouring, variants, and NATO reporting name.
  3. Airforce Technology — https://www.airforce-technology.com/projects/su25/
    Supports: Purpose, design role, operating environment, service ceiling, range, and manufacturers.
  4. HistoryNet — https://historynet.com/sukhoi-su-25-it-has-a-silly-codename-but-this-rugged-soviet-era-warplane-is-having-a-big-impact-in-ukraine/
    Supports: First flight, service entry, nickname, and operational context.