A-10 Thunderbolt

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Role Close air support, and ground-attack aircraft
Manufacturer Fairchild-Republic
First flight 10 May 1972
Introduced March 1977
Status In service
Primary user United States Air Force
Number built 716
 

The A-10 Thunderbolt II is an American single-seat, twin-engine, straight-wing jet aircraft developed by Fairchild-Republic in the early 1970s. The A-10 was designed for a United States Air Force requirement to provide close air support (CAS) of ground forces by attacking tanks, armored vehicles, and other ground targets with a limited air interdiction capability. It is the first U.S. Air Force aircraft designed exclusively for close air support.

The A-10 was designed around the GAU-8 Avenger, a heavy automatic cannon which forms the aircraft's primary armament. The aircraft's hull incorporates over 1,200 pounds (540 kg) of armor and was designed with survivability as a priority, with protective measures in place which enable the aircraft to continue flying even after taking significant damage.

The A-10's official name comes from the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt of World War II, a fighter that was particularly effective at close air support. The A-10 is more commonly known by its nickname "Warthog" or simply "Hog". As a secondary mission, it provides airborne forward air control, guiding other aircraft against ground targets. A-10s used primarily in this role are designated OA-10. The A-10 is expected to be replaced in 2028 or later.

 

 A-10 Thunderbolt Bookmark

Wonderfully detailed bookmarks with silk tassel and metal bead.High resolution graphics on a durable vinyl surfaceSize 1.5” x 7”
$2.00


 A-10 Thunderbolt Adult T-Shirt

100% premium weight cotton. Double-needle bottom hem and sleeves. Pre-shrunk to minimize shrinkage. Front direct silk screen Image. Available in medium, large, xlarge and xxlarge. Colour T-shirt: Sand.
$19.95