Article Posted on : - Jan 12, 2012

Sukhoi Su-25UBM.

MOSCOW (BNS): The Russian Air Force has successfully completed flight trials of the modernised Su-25UBM strike-fighter, RIA Novosti reports.

"Air Force commander Col. Gen. Alexander Zelin signed off on the completion of flight tests for the Su-25UBM at the end of December 2011," Defence Ministry spokesman Col. Vladimir Drik was quoted as saying on Tuesday.

The flight tests took place in southern Astrakhan region. In 2012, the Russian Air Force plans to continue tests on the plane's combat equipment and weaponry.

The Su-25UBM which will replace the SU-25 is a heavily modernised variant. It is capable of training and strike missions and is fitted with advanced weapons and new radar.