Russian Su‑25 shot down by Ukrainian MANPADS in Donetsk clash
The Chortyca group command in the Donetsk region reported the downing of a Russian Su-25 attack aircraft in the Kramatorsk area. We explain which weapon was used and the features of these Russian machines often seen over Ukraine.
"Another Russian Su-25 burned up on the steppes of Ukrainian Donbas. In the Kramatorsk sector, our soldiers shot down a Russian Su-25 that was attempting to fire on the positions of the Ukrainian Defense Forces," the Chortyca group command reported on Telegram.
Russian Su-25 downed by MANPADS
A short video showing the moment of the Ukrainian attack also appeared online. MANPADS, or man-portable air-defense systems, were used.
The Ukrainians did not specify which exact MANPADS were used. Since this weapon is often utilized 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 Mechanized Brigade.
MANPADS allow targeting enemy assets (aircraft, helicopters, drones) with light anti-aircraft missile projectiles. The range depends on the specific model. In Ukraine, for example, Polish PPZR Grom and PPZR Piorun sets are used. Their range is 1,640-18,045 feet and 1,640-21,325 feet, respectively.
A frequently used Russian aircraft
Su-25s (NATO code Frogfoot) are some of the most frequently seen aircraft over Ukraine. They serve the Russian army mainly as machines to support ground troops from the air and often participate in front-line battles. As such, they are frequently exposed to Ukrainian fire, as confirmed once 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 50 feet in length and can reach speeds of up to 590 mph with a weight of about 21,000 pounds. The maximum altitude at which it can operate is 23,000 feet.
This attack aircraft's primary armament is a 30mm GS-30-2 cannon. It can also carry suspended armaments (up to 8,820 pounds), including bombs weighing up to 1,100 pounds, unguided and guided rockets, and air-to-air missiles for self-defense.
