The A-10 Warthog single-seat, straight wing aircraft has served the United States Air Force nearly 50 years. It's a ground attack or close air support plane, which has been used in several conflicts.
The A-10 can transport ordnance across many terrain types. The aircraft features a high-aspect ratio, unswept wing, two non-afterburning turbofan engines and a seven-barrel 30 mm gun. The A-10's large gun is not the only feature. It also has large ailerons that provide exceptional low-altitude maneuverability.
A-10s may operate from forward-air base bases near the frontlines. They can also fly from various locations, including those without much infrastructure. During combat, the A-10 may have to leave the airspace, which may cause it to become vulnerable to incoming missiles. It has a backup mechanical system.
The A-10 was extensively used for ground attacks during the Gulf War. A total of 144 aircraft were deployed to the region, and they helped to destroy 967 enemy tanks, 10 ground vehicles, and 281 military structures. A-10s also performed well against enemy aircraft and helicopters. According to Pentagon, the aircraft could be used to shoot down enemy fighters as well as artillery pieces. However, it was not as effective against antiaircraft weaponry.
The Air Force is trying to retire A-10 since several years. It is unclear if the fleet will be completely retired. The fleet may instead undergo upgrades. Some of the most recent changes include electronic countermeasures, an improved fire control system, and a new variable message format. These upgrades are meant to improve the aircraft's ability to deliver smart bombs and other equipment.
The A-10 is a relatively old aircraft, but it will most likely continue to serve the USAF for many years. The A-10 is still not an advanced platform. Air Force officials are considering a plan to retire the aircraft due to its aging.
The A-10 was designed to be a tank-buster when it was first developed. It was designed to eliminate Soviet armored trucks and was considered an excellent close air support aircraft. The aircraft was heavily armed, including a 30mm gun, a laser guided bomb and other heavy ordnance.
Fairchild Republic originally built the aircraft, but it was later bought by Grumman Corporation. Since that time, the A-10 has undergone significant upgrades. The A-10 is now one of America's most heavily-armed aircraft.
A variety of auxiliary equipment can also be found on the A-10. The A-10 is equipped with a CCD TV and a midwave FLIR. The upgrade includes a ground-collision warning and digital stores management systems.
Despite its age, the A-10 has been able to survive a number of ferocious attacks. During the invasion of Kuwait by Iraqi forces, the aircraft was responsible to the largest number of aerial kills of enemy ground vehicles. In addition, the aircraft was responsible for downing two enemy helicopters and shooting down nine pieces of enemy artillery.