A-10 Warthog delivers decisive air support with unique features

In Afghanistan, the 75th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron supported American and allied troops with close air support and combat search and rescue. The squadron director of operations highlighted the effectiveness during significant combat fire incidents: “Being able to help with troops in contact and then hearing that quiet is something special.”

Lt. Col. Timothy "Scream" Mitchell has been recognized for his nearly two-decade-long commitment to the A-10. He stated, "People always get lost and enamored about the aircraft, but the number one thing is the community that is dedicated to it."

Capt. Dylan “Mac” Vail emphasizes the A-10's importance: “I love the A-10. I love the mission. But what makes it special is the people—the community of pilots who have dedicated themselves to this aircraft and what it stands for.”

The development of the A-10 began after the Vietnam War, driven by a need for a specialized attack aircraft. The USAF Chief of Staff initiated the A-X program in 1966, and 1970 saw development with a focus on handling threats from Soviet armored forces. Eventually, the A-10 was chosen for production in 1973, with the first aircraft delivered in 1975.

The A-10 remains influential, combining loiter time, combat radius, and ordinance payload capacities. These features have been pivotal during operations such as Desert Storm and Noble Anvil. Key specifications of the A-10 include its 57-foot wingspan, speed of 420 mph, and a maximum takeoff weight of 51,000 pounds. The aircraft costs $9.8 million and remains in active inventory with approximately 281 units.