MOSCOW. May 17 (Interfax-AVN) - Preparations for flight tests of the Sukhoi Su-25TM attack aircraft, equipped with the upgraded Kopyo-25M radar, designed by the Fazotron-NIIR Corporation, are being completed, Vladimir Babak, Director General of the Shturmoviki Sukhogo (Sukhoi's Attack Aircraft) Consortium, told Interfax-Military News Agency on Tuesday.
"At the moment the aircraft is being prepared for flight tests, and corresponding documents are being worked out. The tests proper are expected to start in June," Babak said.
He noted that the upgraded Kopyo-25M radar would be quartered in a special container.
The Kopyo-M radar will allow the TV sight to be employed in any weather conditions by day and night. The radar has a container configuration, and can be integrated into the fuselage nose of light combat aircraft.
The Kopyo-M radar is based on new computers, including high-output signal and data processors. The radar range and capabilities against ground- and sea-based targets have been improved by about 20% due to this fact.
The Su-25TM attack aircraft is designed to provide close air support to ground troops by primarily countering enemy tanks and armor.