Ukrainian Su-25 jets armed with French AASM Hammer bombs destroy Russian targets

Defense Express reports.

A video has emerged showcasing, for the first time, the use of French AASM Hammer guided bombs deployed from modified Ukrainian Su-25 attack aircraft.

Previously, there were hints that Ukrainian Su-25s had been upgraded to use AASM Hammer bombs, but these did not provide a complete picture. 

The footage reveals two Su-25 aircraft equipped to carry AASM Hammer bombs, indicating that at least two jets have undergone this modification. The release mechanism is similar to that seen in earlier videos involving MiG-29s. The bombs are launched in a climbing maneuver, with the aircraft flying at low altitudes before release.

Additionally, the video shows Su-25s dropping "marine" versions of the AASM Hammer, designed with a concrete coating to withstand marine environments, a feature common in U.S. Navy carrier operations.

Each Su-25 can carry two AASM Hammer bombs, with one bomb mounted on each of two pylons. The video appears to date back to the summer of 2024, aligning with earlier reports about the upgrade. This was initially disclosed by Air Force Commander Serhii Holubtsov in June 2024.

This adaptation provides Ukrainian Su-25s with an advantage, as Russian Su-25s have not been modified to use guided bombs with UMPC modules. There have also been suggestions that F-16s intended for Ukraine might be compatible with French bombs, though updates on this possibility remain uncertain. Further developments may emerge in 2025.