Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) showcased the modernized Su-25 “Frogfoot” attack aircraft for the Azerbaijan Air Force at the ADEX-2024 defense exhibition held in Baku, Azerbaijan. The aircraft, named “Laçin,” attracted attention as the result of extensive modernization efforts aimed at boosting Azerbaijan’s military capacity.
According to a statement on TUSAŞ’s official website, the agreement to modernize the Azerbaijan Air Force’s attack aircraft fleet was signed during the IDEF-2023 defense exhibition held in Istanbul in the summer of 2023. Following the agreement, the Su-25 was sent to Turkey for modernization work, which, according to a report by EDR On-Line, was completed and delivered to the Azerbaijan Air Force in May of this year.
“Laçin” Equipped with Advanced Technology
As part of the modernization, Turkish defense industry companies integrated advanced Turkish-made precision-guided missiles and bombs into the aircraft’s weapon control system. Equipped with these new systems, Laçin was supported by advanced weapons such as the SOM cruise missile developed by Roketsan and the OFAB-250-LG guided bomb produced by Aselsan, and was showcased in a static display at ADEX-2024.
The modernization of the Su-25 Laçin was carried out in two phases. In the first phase, known as “Stage-1,” the UBAS fire control system was installed to integrate MK83 1,000 lb and MK82 500 lb guided bombs equipped with the KGK guidance kit into the aircraft. These bombs, outfitted with the KGK guidance kit, allow aircraft to strike ground targets with high precision without entering enemy air defense zones.
Second Phase: Complete Avionics Overhaul
In the second phase of modernization, known as “Stage-2,” the aircraft’s avionics systems were completely redesigned to integrate more advanced GPS-guided HGK bombs and SOM cruise missiles. These efforts aim to significantly enhance the modern combat capabilities of the Azerbaijan Air Force.
In the near future, deliveries of SOM cruise missiles to Azerbaijan are planned, with integration into Akıncı UAVs and Su-25 aircraft expected.
Azerbaijan’s Modern Combat Power
As of 2024, the Azerbaijan Air Force inventory includes 14 MiG-29 fighter jets and 38 Su-25 attack aircraft. Based on information displayed at the ADEX-2024 exhibition, Azerbaijan has also begun adding China-Pakistan co-produced JF-17C fighter jets to replace the MiG-29s.
TUSAŞ’s modernization of the Su-25 Laçin highlights the deepening defense cooperation between Azerbaijan and Turkey, positioning the aircraft to play a key role in shifting military balances in the region.
