| The A-10 is the first USAF
aircraft designed specifically for close air support of ground forces.
It is named for the famous P-47 Thunderbolt, a fighter often used in a
close air support role during the latter part of WW II.
The A-10 is designed for
maneuverability at low speeds and low altitudes for accurate weapons delivery,
and carries systems and armor to permit it to survive in this environment.
It is intended for use against all ground targets, most specifically tanks
and other armored vehicles.
The Thunderbolt II's great
endurance gives it a large combat radius and/or long loiter time in a battle
area. Its short takeoff and landing capability permits operation from airstrips
close to the front lines. Service at forward area bases with limited facilities
is possible because of the A-10's simplicity of design. |
|
A-10’s flew about 8000 sorties
in the Gulf and only five were lost.
|
The first prototype Thunderbolt
II made its initial flight on May 10, 1972. A-10A production commenced
in 1975. Delivery of aircraft to USAF units began in 1976 and ended in
1984.
Designed for close air support
for ground troops, the A-10 was about to be retired. However, it proved
itself so well in the Gulf War that it has been retained.
Capable of firing 6000 rounds
per minute, the 30mm gun holds about 1000 rounds and the total fire time
is about 20 seconds. The A-10 has 11 pylons to hold ordnance and can carry
more than its own weight in bombs and rockets.
A titanium tub around the
pilot can take a hit from a 20mm bullet. The engines are also armor-covered
and have dual hydraulic systems.
Fire/explosion proof fuel
systems make for a very safe plane. The ejection seat can be used, if necessary,
from the ground with no forward speed. |
| SPECIFICATIONS |
|
| Span: |
57 ft. 6 in. |
| Length: |
53 ft. 4 in. |
| Height: |
17 ft. 8 in. |
| Weight: |
47,000 lbs. |
| Armament: |
One GAU-8/A 30mm Gatling
Gun and 16,000 lbs. of mixed ordnance |
| Engines: |
Two General Electric TF34-GE-100
turbofans of 9,000 lbs. thrust each |
| Crew: |
One |
| Cost: |
$ 2,400,000 |
| Tail Number: |
77-0228 |
| Nickname: |
Warthog |
| Years in Service: |
1981 - Present |
|
|
| PERFORMANCE |
|
| Maximum Speed: |
450 mph |
| Cruising Speed: |
335 mph |
| Range: |
2900 miles |
| Service Ceiling: |
44,200 feet |
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