| The need
for close air support, on small pin point targets, was recognized early
during the Vietnam conflict. Following an experimental development
program begun in the early 1970's, the Fairchild Republic Industries
A-10 Thunderbolt II was selected for production. The performance
characteristics demanded were for operation on unimproved short fields,
both high and low airspeed maneuverability, easy maintenance, long
loiter times and range, excellent pilot protection, and a capacity for
large mixed weapons loads.
The appearance of the A-10 is remarkable while
its performance is amazing. Known affectionately as the "Wart Hog" by
its pilots, it's a large single seat aircraft, identified by a pair of
TF-34-100A high bypass fan jet engines mounted high near the rear of the
twin tailed fuselage. A few of the specifications are: Length 53' 4";
height 14'8", span 57'6"; maximum gross weight 47,400lbs, including
16,000lbs of external stores. Internal armament is the GAU-8/A 30mm
Gatling cannon capable of 2100 or 4200 rounds per minute. It carries
1350 rounds of ammunition, a fire control head-up display, CRT TV
monitor, laser spot seeker plus a diversified armament panel that can
facilitate any operational need. The A-10 has been around since 1972,
and has again proven its worth during the recent Gulf war. |
