The A-10/OA-10 Thunderbolt II, often known as the "Warthog," is the first US Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles.
The A-10 has excellent maneuverability at low air speeds and altitude, and is a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. It can loiter near battle areas for extended periods and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings with 1.5-mile visibility. Using night vision goggles, pilots can conduct missions during darkness.
Survivability
Pilots are protected by 900 pounds of titanium armor (the "titanium bathtub") that also protects parts of the flight-control system. The aircraft can survive direct hits from armor-piercing and high explosive projectiles up to 23mm. Self-sealing fuel cells are protected by internal and external foam. Manual systems back up redundant hydraulic flight-control systems, permitting pilots to fly and land when hydraulic power or a wing is lost.
Armament
The Thunderbolt II's 30mm GAU-8/A Gatling gun can fire 3,900 rounds per minute and can defeat an array of ground targets including tanks. Other equipment includes AGM-65 Maverick and AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles, plus various bombs and rockets.
Combat History
The first production A-10A was delivered in October 1975. In the 1991 Gulf War, A-10s had a 95.7% mission capable rate, flew 8,100 sorties, launched 90% of AGM-65 Maverick missiles, and destroyed over 1,000 tanks, 2,000 military vehicles, and 1,200 artillery pieces. Five A-10s were shot down — far fewer than expected. The aircraft subsequently served in Kosovo (1999), Afghanistan (2001), and Iraq (2003).