[Mr. Football]

Next generation: A-10C arrives at Davis-Monthan
by 2nd Lt. Mary Pekas
355th Wing Public Affairs

11/30/2006 - DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. (AFPN) -- The A-10C Thunderbolt II made its official roll-out debut here Nov. 29, revealing its transformation and its enhanced capabilities under the Precision Engagement program.

The Precision Engagement program will offer the A-10 the most significant modifications it has ever received in its 30-year history, making it a more capable and survivable attack fighter, according to Maj. Dan Walls, 355th Training Squadron director of conversion training unit operations.

"Precision Engagement increases the lethality, survivability and standoff of one of the most respected and recognized attack aircraft in the world and ushers in a new era in the A-10 story," Major Walls said.

Under this program, the A-10 will receive numerous enhancements including the full integration of sensors, including data link and a targeting pod, allowing the A-10C to identify and strike targets from higher altitudes and greater distances without sacrificing accuracy. This integration also will enhance the aircraft's communication capabilities.

The cockpit will undergo modifications under the program with the introduction of two new multi-functional color displays and a new hands-on-throttle-and-stick interface. These enhancements translate into increased situational awareness for the pilot and the ability to perform most tasks without removing his or her hands from the throttle or stick.

As a result of this upgrade, the A-10C is projected to remain operational into the end of the 2020s, well beyond its initial expected lifespan, Major Walls said.

At the roll-out ceremony, Col. Kent Laughbaum, 355th Wing commander, introduced the arrival of the upgraded jet with reminiscent words on the history of the A-10. He ended by citing several of the technological advancements made to the A-10C and the possibilities for it in the future.

Guests and media later took the opportunity to see the newest modifications up close as A-10C pilots and maintainers showed them around the aircraft and the cockpit. A desktop simulator also was provided for visitors to experience virtual flight in the modified jet.

"We're going to see at least another generation of the A-10 at (Davis-Monthan)," said Colonel Laughbaum. "It is an exciting day for Davis-Monthan and the A-10 community."

Link to photos of the new A-10C

[planenuts]

Pretty interesting for a plane the Air Force didn't want

[STARMAN 352ND]

That A-10 is hanging in there...One tough little warrior she is.
Twice she almost gets the boot and now these will keep them going till end of 2020's.
One Great bird she is.
JP

[SKUNKY]

.....still ugly as all get-out though.........................

I know,.....beauty is as beauty does...

[mustangdriver]

A-10's are oneof the coolest planes in the world. What other aircraft can saw a tank in half with it's main gun?

[bsmith13]

Originally Posted by mustangdriver

A-10's are oneof the coolest planes in the world. What other aircraft can saw a tank in half with it's main gun?

One of the ammo guys told me that if the target vehicle is buttoned up, the concussion from the A-10's 30mm will kill the occupants 2/10ths of a second before the explosive round and spalling start richocheting around inside.

I found this morbidly fascinating.

[mustangdriver]

Ouch! That is one wild aircraft. I saw them shoot up an armored car while I was at Quantico. It was impressive.

[jim]

This brings back a memory from my sons school days. Unknown to his parents he sewed onto his blazer an A10 badge he bought. It had a picture of an A10 with the words "Ugly but well hung" We found out about it when he was sent home with a letter about inappropriate school wear!!!!!!

[mustangdriver]

That is great!!

[Hoverbug]

Originally Posted by planenuts

Pretty interesting for a plane the Air Force didn't want

The funny thing is that Army is not happy about the F-35 replacing the A-10. If the F-35 starts running into trouble in Congress (more than now anyway), watch for the the Army to take a shot for keeping the A-10s instead. They may yet get their opportunity for revenge on the A-10 issues.