Sukhoi Su-39

The Sukhoi Su‑39, also known as the Su‑25TM, is a modernised variant of the Soviet‑era Su‑25 close‑air support aircraft, developed by the Sukhoi Design Bureau in the early 2000s. The program began in 1996 with the goal of producing a highly survivable, low‑altitude strike platform for the Russian Air Force, and the first flight took place on 8 December 2000. Unlike its predecessor, the Su‑39 incorporates a digital “glass” cockpit, upgraded navigation and targeting pods, and a more powerful upgraded R-195 engine that provides better thrust‑to‑weight ratio and fuel efficiency. Its airframe features reinforced armor, self‑sealing fuel tanks and an advanced electronic‑warfare suite, allowing operation in dense anti‑aircraft environments. The aircraft can carry a wide array of weapons, from unguided rockets and bombs to precision‑guided missiles such as the Kh‑29, Kh‑31 and air‑to‑ground laser‑guided munitions, all controlled by a modern fire‑control computer. Though not exported in large numbers, the Su‑39 demonstrates Russia’s commitment to extending the service life of legacy platforms through state‑of‑the‑art upgrades. Its record in conflicts such as the 2008 Georgia war and the Syrian campaign has validated its survivability and combat effectiveness, cementing its role in Russian air doctrine.

Sukhoi Design Bureau

Classification

Production & History

Design & Classification