+ ↺ − 16 pxThe Syrian Air Force is demonstrating the combat readiness of at least two Su-22 aircraft, an export version of the Soviet Su-17, through training flights. The first confirmed loss of a Syrian Air Force Su-22 since the start of the civil war was recorded on February 14, 2013, when rebel forces shot it down using a man-portable air defense system (MANPADS). On July 24, 2018, a Syrian Air Force Su-22 that had violated Israeli airspace was shot down by two Israeli Patriot missiles. In March 2025, the army of the new Syrian government deployed its air force for the first time—specifically, Mi-24 attack helicopters—in battles against remnants of pro-government forces. The new Syrian government sent a Su-22 into the air for the first time on September 7, 2025, from Shayrat Air Base.