"Thunderstruck"

For sheer firepower, there isn’t much that compares to the A-10. Designated the “Thunderbolt II,” but more affectionately known as the “Warthog,” the A-10 is among the most lethal and most resilient aircraft to enter the force. The A-10 is the first aircraft designed specifically for close air support and can survive direct hits from armor-piercing and high explosive projectiles up to 23mm. The aircraft was built around its GAU-8/A Avenger seven-barreled cannon, the most powerful gun ever fitted to a tactical aircraft. The ultimate measure of a fighting force’s effectiveness is the ability to rapidly project and sustain an effective combat force close to a potential battle area. Threats to U.S. interests have changed in the past year and many combat scenarios will be played out toe-to-toe with the enemy at close quarters. Despite improved capabilities of potential adversaries, the A-10 accomplishes its mission by its capacity to deliver punishing firepower, yet withstand astonishing da