First Modernized Azerbaijanian Su-25ML Passes User Tests

The first of Azerbaijan's Su-25ML aircraft, modernized by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), successfully passed its tests.

At the 16th International Defense Industry Fair (IDEF 2023), a contract was signed between the Ministry of Defense of Azerbaijan and TAI on the modernization of Azerbaijan's Su-25 aircraft. However, the modernization activities started about a year ago, a statement from the Azerbaijan MoD said.

The first Su-25 aircraft modernized by TAI was brought to the country, the statement said without stating when the activity occurted. The test flights of the aircraft by Azerbaijani fighter pilots, was successfully carried out.

The upgrade includes installation of smart bombs and missiles such as Turkish-made TEBER and KGK into the aircraft were completed, and that the results were evaluated positively by military experts.

The modernized Su-25 aircraft will be named as Su-25 ML and will include:

Ability to operate day and night in all weather conditions

Integrated ANS/KKS (Eng. INS/GPS encrypted software support) precision strike capability

Compatibility with F-16C Block 40 and F 4E / 2020 warplanes

Selectable shot angle

Assault on opportunity targets

Waypoint tracking

MIL STD 1760 compliance