The A-10 Warthog

The A-10 Warthog is a serious aircraft; although sub-sonic, the fixed wing close air support, attack and forward air control aircraft performs a serious role protecting the soldiers on the ground. As an attack aircraft, the role of close air support is a wonderful tool for the soldiers on the ground, they can be taking fire and call in a airstrike taking the enemy out very quickly. I have never served in the military but I do have an understanding and interest in engineering and this is a machine that interests me.  

The A-10 airframe is specifically designed for the 30 mm rotary cannon mounted below the cockpit for close air support missions. Due to its large wing area and high wing aspect ratio, the A-10 has superior maneuverability at low speeds and altitudes complimenting the attack role. Although the Thunderbolt is technically name of the aircraft, the Warthog is the name that has stuck - go figure.

There is some serious talk the A-10 will be retired to make way for the F-35 JSF; not because the A-10 is outdated or ineffective but because the F-35 may not be financially viable otherwise - it all comes down to dollars unfortunately. Of course, now that President Trump has tweeted his displeasure of the F-35 program, maybe the A-10 has an extended life.