The Thunderbolt II can be serviced and operated from austere bases with limited facilities near battle areas. The entire A-10 fleet has been Precision Engagement modified and now carries the A-10C designation. In 2005, the entire A-10 fleet began receiving the Precision Engagement upgrades that include an improved fire control system, electronic countermeasures, upgraded cockpit displays, the ability to deliver smart bombs, moving map display, hands on throttle and stick, digital stores management, LITENING and Sniper advanced targeting pod integration, situational awareness data link or SADL, variable message format, or VMF, GPS-guided weapons, and upgraded DC power. In 1999, aircraft began to receive Global Positioning System navigation systems and a new multi-function display. Later, the Low-Altitude Safety and Targeting Enhancement (LASTE) upgrade provided computerized weapon-aiming equipment, an autopilot, and a ground-collision warning system. The A-10 began receiving an inertial navigation system in 1980. Pave Penney has now been discontinued in favor more capable advanced targeting pods. In 1978, the aircraft received the Pave Penny laser receiver pod, which sensed reflected laser radiation from a laser designator. The A-10 "Warthog" has received many upgrades over the years. This permits pilots to fly and land when hydraulic power is lost. Manual systems back up their redundant hydraulic flight-control systems. Their self-sealing fuel cells are protected by internal and external foam. The aircraft can survive direct hits from armor-piercing and high explosive projectiles up to 23mm. The redundant primary structural sections allow the aircraft to enjoy better survivability during close air support than did previous aircraft. The pilots are protected by titanium armor that also protects parts of the flight-control system. Thunderbolt IIs have Night Vision Imaging Systems, or NVIS, goggle compatible single-seat cockpits forward of their wings and a large bubble canopy which provides pilots all-around vision. Using night vision goggles, A-10 pilots can conduct their missions during darkness.Ī thrilling look at the combat capabilities of the A-10 Warthog. The wide combat radius and short takeoff and landing capability permit operations in and out of locations near front lines. The aircraft can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time and operate in low ceiling and visibility conditions. The A-10 Thunderbolt II has excellent maneuverability at low air speeds and altitude, and is a highly accurate and survivable weapons-delivery platform. The GAU-8 is designed to fire armor-piercing depleted uranium and high explosive incendiary rounds. The A-10 is perhaps best known for its fearsome GAU-8 Avenger 30mm gatling gun mounted on the nose. Air Force’s primary low-altitude close air support aircraft. This episode chronicles the combat history of the "Warthog" and features interviews with current pilots who share combat experiences and take you for an unforgettable flight in the A-10.Categories Military Aircraft Air Force Aircraft Air Force Attack Aircraft Attack Aircraft Air Force EquipmentĪffectionately called the “A-10 Warthog” for its aggressive look and often painted with teeth on the nose cone, the A-10 Thunderbolt II is the U.S. From its first taste of battle in Desert Storm to the recent assault on Baghdad, the A-10 carries enough weaponry into battle to disable 16 main battle tanks, and with its amazing 30 millimeter 7-barrelled cannon, the "Flying Gun" dominates the skies. Its ability to support ground troops, to take out enemy positions and tanks and act as a spotter plane have made it one of the most successful jets of recent times. aviation history designed specifically for Close Air Support. The most feared aircraft in the Air Force arsenal, the A-10 Tankbuster was the first aircraft in U.S. Published by History Channel broadcasted as part of HC Battle Stations series
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