8. Su-25SM3
Speed: Mach 0.82
In service: 2014
Although strictly speaking Su-25 is an attack jet, it does possess the ability to carry both K-13 and R-60 air-to-air missiles, which give it some multirole ability and can be stretched into a fighter category.
After Afghanistan debacle, Soviet Air Force decided that Su-25, already in service since the 1970s, needed an upgrade in order to increase its capabilities and survivability. The new design was named Su-39, but ultimately it was too pricey to procure in numbers Russians needed. The Less ambitious project was called for and Su-25SM was born. It features new electronics, including laser targeting system, and new avionics suite.
After deficiencies were observed in the Russo-Georgian war in 2008, extensive testing was performed and new laser optical system was installed, together with Vitebsk protection suit on several jets deployed in Syria. After they proved its increased effectiveness, the new model was dubbed Su-25SM3 tht ranks 8th on our list of fastest, most advanced Russian fighter jets, although it remains unclear whether Russians plan to upgrade their entire fleet of Su-25 to this new standard.
