In a significant development for both Azerbaijan and Turkey’s defense industries, a crucial contract was signed during the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) held in Istanbul. The contract, signed on 26 July, paves the way for the upgrade of Azerbaijani Air Force’s Sukhoi Su-25 ground attack aircraft, with Turkish Aerospace Industries, Inc (TAI, TUSAS) at the helm of this transformative project. The Azerbaijani Ministry of Defence (MoD) released an official statement announcing the contract’s signing. The ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials from both countries, including Azerbaijani Deputy Minister of Defence Agil Gurbanov and Haluk Görgun, the head of Turkey’s Defence Industry Presidency (SSB). The focus of the contract is the integration of Turkish-made smart bombs and missiles into the existing aircraft used by the Azerbaijani, as well as comprehensive modernization activities for their avionics systems.
The primary goal of this collaboration is to bolster Azerbaijan’s aerial capabilities and enhance its national security by equipping their Su-25 fleet with state-of-the-art technology. With Turkey being a leading player in the defense industry and possessing cutting-edge expertise in aviation technology, this partnership is poised to strengthen both countries’ strategic positions in the region. The upgrade project, however, is not yet set in stone, as it is still subject to approval by the presidents of both nations. While the signing of the contract is a significant step forward, it highlights the importance both Azerbaijan and Turkey place on strategic cooperation and mutual interests. TUSAS’s involvement in the Su-25 upgrade is part of a broader collaboration framework with Azerbaijan. The Su-25 agreement is one of three “modernization co-operation protocols” signed by TUSAS. The other two protocols involve local companies in Turkey, aiming to upgrade Turkey’s F-16 multirole fighters and E-7T Hik airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft.
The Sukhoi Su-25 Grach (NATO reporting name: Frogfoot) is a subsonic, single-seat, twin-engine jet aircraft developed in the Soviet Union by Sukhoi. It was designed to provide close air support for Soviet Ground Forces. The first prototype made its maiden flight on 22 February 1975. After testing, the aircraft went into series production in 1978 in Tbilisi in the Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic. On 4 October 2020, an Azerbaijani Air force Su-25 aircraft was shot down, by Armenian forces, probably with a 9K33 Osa while targeting Armenian positions in Fuzuli. Azerbaijani officials acknowledged the loss in December 2020, while disclosing a major role of manned aviation being hidden during the active phase of the conflict with more than 600 airstrikes by manned aviation from 27 September 2020 to 9 November 2020, with the Su-25 fleet, tasked with the critical role of suppression and destruction of the enemy air defense among others. Recently, the Su-25 has seen service in the Russian intervention in the Syrian Civil War, the clashes of the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh War, and on both sides in the 2022 Russian invasion of Ukraine.
Azerbaijan’s possession of the Su-25 fleet, operating from Kurdamir Air Base, has been a critical asset in the country’s defense strategy. During the war with Armenia in 2020, some of these aircraft were even forward deployed to the newly constructed airbase at Nakhchivan International Airport. The upgrade project will undoubtedly boost the Su-25’s operational effectiveness, providing the Azerbaijan Air Force with a tactical edge and the ability to respond effectively to emerging threats. Apart from the direct benefits to Azerbaijan’s defense capabilities, the collaboration also signifies a strengthening of diplomatic and strategic ties between the two countries. Such cooperation fosters a spirit of partnership, mutual understanding, and trust, essential elements for promoting regional stability and security. In conclusion, the contract signed between Azerbaijan’s MoD and Turkish Aerospace to upgrade the Su-25s marks a milestone in the strategic partnership between the two countries. By integrating advanced weaponry and modernizing avionics systems, Azerbaijan’s air force will be equipped with a cutting-edge fleet capable of meeting evolving security challenges.
