When it comes to close air support (CAS), few military aircraft command the level of respect and admiration shown toward the US A-10 Thunderbolt II. Nicknamed the "Warthog" for its rugged good looks and durability, through countless missions where precision, power, and durability were paramount. Introduced by Fairchild Republic in 1977, the A-10 was born from a study commissioned in the 1960s to design a durable Close Air Support aircraft dedicated to safeguarding combat troops on the ground.
Close Air Support is defined by the as "air action by aircraft against hostile targets that are in close proximity to friendly forces and that require detailed integration of each air mission with the fire and movement of those forces." The CAS mission presents unique challenges that few military aircraft can overcome. The A-10 was designed to meet these challenges head on.
include: Below are five noteworthy CAS engagements involving the A-10 Thunderbolt II, highlighting the extraordinary capabilities of this formidable war machine. The mighty Warthog showcased its battle prowess for the first time during the Gulf War in 1991, which saw US-led forces thwart Iraq's invasion of Kuwait. With an impressive mission capable rate of 95.
7 percent, A-10s flew 8,100 sorties and were responsible for launching 90 percent of the AGM-65 Maverick missiles fired during the conflict. A fleet of 132 A-10s contributed significantly to the war effort, performing tank-killing and ground attack missions, shoo.