Iran Still Places High Hopes in 50-Year-Old Fighter Aircraft, Su-20/22
Among the upgrade efforts for Iran's Su-20/22 fighter aircraft is the enhancement of its capability to launch satellite-guided glide bombs and air-launched cruise missiles (ALCM).
(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Despite being over 50 years old, the Iranian Air Force still places hope in its Soviet-made Su-20/22 fighter aircraft and has undertaken upgrades in recent years.
Among the upgrade efforts for Iran’s Su-20/22 fighter aircraft is the enhancement of its capability to launch satellite-guided glide bombs and air-launched cruise missiles (ALCM).
The Su-20/22 fighter jets can now deploy “Yaseen” glide bombs with a range of 50 km and air-launched cruise missiles named “Arman.”
As observed in the conflict in Ukraine, Russia extensively employs glide bombs capable of targeting distant objectives.
Russian fighter jets release these glide bombs from outside the range of Ukrainian military air defense systems to avoid becoming targets for the enemy’s anti-aircraft guided missiles.
Iran’s “Yaseen” glide bombs, unveiled to the public in 2019, can be launched by both manned and unmanned aircraft, effectively engaging targets at various distances, day or night, and in all weather conditions.
Weighing 300 kg, with 215 kg dedicated to the explosive payload, the “Yaseen” glide bombs ensure maximum destruction of their targets.
Equipped with satellite-guided navigation systems, these Iranian-made glide bombs boast a Circular Error Probable (CEP) of around 10 meters, ensuring precise targeting.
On the other hand, the air-launched cruise missile “Arman” is an adaptation of the short-range ballistic missile “Ababil.”
This missile, capable of being launched by the upgraded Su-20/22 fighter aircraft, represents Iran’s attempt to develop an air-launched weapons system, similar to Russia’s hypersonic guided missile “Khizhal.”
The development of “Arman” showcases Iran’s efforts to strengthen its air force and enhance its capabilities to deter potential adversaries.
Currently, limited information is available about the air-launched cruise missile “Arman.”
However, it is anticipated that Iran’s air power will receive a significant boost with the imminent acquisition of Su-35 fighter jets from Russia, believed to be a result of Iran’s assistance to Russia during the Moscow military campaign in Ukraine. – DSA
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