The specialists have completed the flight testing of Su-25UBM strike-fighter, RIA Novosti reports. It has been reported by the representative of Russian Ministry of Defense, Vladimir Drik.

Su-25UBM aircraft is the modernization of Su-25 (so-called Grach). The new strike-fighter may be used for pilot training, retraining and performance of combat assignments.

“In late December 2011 Commander in Chief of the Russian air forces, General-Colonel Alexander Zelin has signed the act on successful completion of first stage of modernized Su-25UBM strike-fighter’s state testing. Now the flight testing of the jet is fully completed”, - said Drik.

According to him, the Flight Center named after Chkalov in Akhtubinsk (Astrakhan Region) will continue the testing of this jet in 2012, in particular the center’s team will test the combat capabilities of a new navigation target acquisition system. It includes command center processing and display system, short-range navigation satellite system, GLONASS navigation system and radio intelligence station.

The new strike-fighters will have the state-of-the-art radar equipment, more powerful and precise armament, the capability of automatic mission implementation, increased damage control and reliability. Its combat radius is 910 km, the maximum flight speed is 950 km/h.
Su-25UBM will replace the ageing Su-25UB operational trainers and its combat capabilities will correspond to the Su-25SM strike-fighter. Su-25UBM is able to perform combat assignments in any time of day and adverse weather conditions. It is able to use high-precision armament beyond the range of enemy’s air defense.