Su-25 and A-10: Evaluating Close Air Support Capabilities

 The Sukhoi Su-25, also known as the Frogfoot, and the A-10 Thunderbolt II, commonly referred to as the Warthog, are two iconic ground attack aircraft designed for close air support (CAS) missions. While they share similarities in their role and purpose, they originate from different countries and have distinct design philosophies. In this article, we will compare and contrast the Su-25 and A-10, examining their key features, performance, armament, protection, and overall suitability for the CAS role.

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Design and Purpose

The Su-25 was the Soviet Air Force's first mass-produced jet aircraft specifically designed for CAS missions. Its simple, effective, and durable design has made it a cost-effective option for the Russian Air and Space Force (RuASF). On the other hand, the A-10 was developed by the United States Air Force to provide unparalleled close air support capabilities, with a primary focus on the survivability of the aircraft and its pilot.

Close Air Support

When it comes to close air support, the Su-25 offers advantages in terms of speed, fuel versatility, and takeoff capabilities. With a 34% higher cruise speed and the ability to use various fuels, including diesel, the Su-25 can be located closer to the frontline and provide quicker response times. However, the A-10 boasts a greater range, longer flight time, and in-flight refueling capabilities. While these characteristics may not be critical in bombing technologically inferior forces, they provide advantages in sustained operations and support for modern conflicts.

Armament 

Su-25

1. GSh-30-2 Gun: The Su-25 is equipped with a GSh-30-2 twin-barrel autocannon with a rate of fire of 3,000 rounds per minute. It is lighter than the GAU-8 Avenger used in the A-10 and has no limit to burst length, making it suitable for strafing ground targets.
2. Rockets: The Su-25 can carry various types of unguided rockets, including S-8 and S-13 rockets. These rockets are effective against a wide range of ground targets, such as armored vehicles and fortified positions.
3. Bombs: The aircraft has the capability to carry different types of bombs, including conventional iron bombs, cluster bombs, and runway denial bombs. The Su-25 can deliver its payload with precision and accuracy, targeting enemy positions effectively.
4. Air-to-Air Missiles: The Su-25 is equipped with R-60 and R-73 air-to-air missiles for self-defense purposes. These missiles can engage enemy aircraft in close-range combat.

   

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A-10

1. GAU-8 Avenger Gun: The A-10 is renowned for its GAU-8 Avenger 30mm seven-barrel Gatling gun, which can fire armor-piercing and high-explosive incendiary rounds. The Avenger has a high rate of fire of about 3,900 rounds per minute and is primarily used to engage armored vehicles.
2. Rockets: Similar to the Su-25, the A-10 can carry unguided rockets, such as the Hydra 70 rocket. These rockets are effective against a variety of ground targets.
3. Bombs: The A-10 has a wide array of bomb options, including general-purpose bombs, cluster bombs, and laser-guided bombs. The aircraft can carry a significant payload and deliver precise strikes on ground targets.
4. Air-to-Air Missiles: The A-10 can carry AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles for self-defense against enemy aircraft.

   

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It is worth noting that while the A-10 can carry a larger payload and has a more powerful cannon, the Su-25 has advantages in terms of speed, maneuverability, and close proximity to the front line, allowing it to provide rapid close air support. Furthermore, the Su-25's GSh-30-2 gun, although lighter, has proven to be effective in combat situations.

 

Protection 

Both aircraft prioritize the protection of the pilot and critical systems. The Su-25's smaller size allows it to incorporate up to 1100kg of titanium armor, surpassing the A-10's approximately 540kg of armor. Additionally, the Su-25's increased speed and maneuverability contribute to its enhanced survivability, making it a more challenging target to hit.

While direct comparisons between the Su-25 and A-10 might be misleading due to their different design philosophies, it is evident that both aircraft excel in the CAS role. The Su-25's cost-effectiveness, speed, and proximity to the frontline provide it with unique advantages, enabling it to respond quickly to critical situations. On the other hand, the A-10's longer range, flight time, and superior payload capacity make it well-suited for sustained operations and support in modern conflicts.

Ultimately, the choice between the Su-25 and A-10 depends on the specific operational requirements, the nature of the conflict, and the resources available to the respective air forces. Both aircraft have proven their worth in numerous conflicts and continue to play crucial roles in supporting ground forces and conducting close air support missions.