Ukrainian Su-25 Jets Strike Russian Positions with American Zuni Rockets, Video

On October 15, Ukrainian Air Force Su-25 jets carried out an airstrike against Russian forces positions using American Zuni rockets. The attack, executed by aircraft from the 299th Tactical Aviation Brigade, targeted a building where Russian forces were located. The video of the strike, shows a successful hit on the structure using 127mm unguided aviation rockets.

The Su-25 aircraft employed a dive-bombing technique, known for its complexity and lower accuracy, but effective in covering large areas. The jets were equipped with LAU-10 launchers, each capable of carrying four Zuni rockets.

First reports of Ukraine receiving Zuni rockets emerged in January 2023, when the Pentagon included 4,000 units in a military aid package.

By May 2023, photos of these rockets mounted on Ukrainian Su-25s appeared online. In October, further footage surfaced showing the use of Zuni rockets from Mi-24 helicopters.

Zuni rockets, equipped with a fragmentation warhead, have a greater range than Soviet-era S-13 rockets. It is expected that they could become a key part of the Ukrainian Air Force’s arsenal, gradually replacing older Soviet systems.

The Zuni rockets are 127mm unguided aviation rockets developed in the United States, originally designed for use by the US Navy. They can be equipped with various warheads, including fragmentation and armor-piercing types, making them versatile in combat situations. Zuni rockets are used to target fortified structures, vehicles, and enemy personnel. Their significant destructive power and accuracy, when employed correctly, make them an effective tool for providing air support to ground forces.

Earlier, the Ukrainian Air Force has officially commenced the use of the AIM-9X Block II air-to-air missiles, marking a significant enhancement to its aerial capabilities.