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About the Fairchild Republic A-10A "Thunderbolt
II"
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.
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