Fairchild
A-10
Thunderbolt II
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Photo: Robert Deering 1980
Carswell AFB (FWH)
Fort Worth, Texas
     
Photo: Robert Deering 10/12/2008
Alliance Airport (AFW)
 Fort Worth, Texas
Photo: Robert Deering 10/18/2012
National Museum of the USAF
Wright-Patterson AFB (FFO)
Dayton, Ohio		      
The A-10 is the first U.S. Air Force aircraft designed specifically for close air support of ground forces. It is named for the famous P-47 Thunderbolt, a fighter often used in a close air support role during the latter part of World War II. The A-10 is very maneuverable at low speeds and low altitudes to ensure accurate weapons delivery, and it carries the systems and armor needed to survive in this environment. It is intended for use against all ground targets, but specifically tanks and other armored vehicles. The Thunderbolt II's great endurance gives it a large combat radius and long loiter time in a battle area. Its short takeoff and landing capability permits operation from airstrips close to the front lines. Maintenance at forward bases with limited facilities is possible because of the A-10's simple design.
TECHNICAL NOTES:
Armament: One GAU-8/A 30mm Gatling gun and 16,000 lbs. of mixed ordnance
Engines: Two General Electric TF34-GE-100 turbofans of 9,000 lbs. thrust each
Maximum speed: 450 nautical mph
Range: 800 miles
Span: 57 ft. 6 in.
Length: 53 ft. 4 in.
Height: 14 ft. 8 in.
Weight: 47,000 lbs.

Source: National Museum of the United States Air Force

  
   
A-10A USAF
Fact Sheet