Discover the technical secrets and operational history of the Sukhoi Su-25 'Frogfoot', a formidably armed, armoured and very agile attack aircraft that has served with distinction in Afghanistan, the Middle East,, the former Soviet Union and Africa. Had the Cold War turned 'hot', the Su-25 would have been the main Soviet combat type facing NATO armour. Although it has been criticised in the past for its vulnerability to ground fire, the faithful 'Frogfoot' is now widely accepted as the true successor to the specialised ground attack aircraft that emerged during World War 2. Indeed, it is now slated to remain in service with most of its current operators across the globe until at least 2020. This book details the service history of the 50-25 during more than 30 years of combat using first-hand accounts from Russian pilots that have flown the jet in combat, supported by revealing archive photographs, exploring the successes of this remarkably versatile aircraft in full. Osprey Combat Aircraft Series Comprehensive histories of fighting aircraft and their crews, highlighting their vital role in the development of warfare in the 20th and 21st centuries, A unique source of information, researched by recognised experts and brought to life by first-hand accounts from the combat veterans themselves, Concise, authoritative text is supported by at least 30 original colour artworks, specially commissioned scale drawings, and the best archival photography from around the world Book jacket.