Fairchild-Republic A-10 Thunderbolt
    The A-10 is the first USAF 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 WW II. The A-10 is designed for maneuverability at low speeds and low altitudes for accurate weapons delivery, and carries systems and armor to permit it 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/or long loiter time in a battle area. Its short takeoff and landing capability permits operation from airstrips close to the front lines. Service at forward area bases with limited facilities is possible because of the A-10's simplicity of design.The A-10 and OA-10 Thunderbolt IIs are the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The primary mission of the A-10 is to provide day and night close air combat support for friendly land forces and to act as forward air controller  to coordinate and direct friendly air forces in support of land forces. It has a secondary mission of supporting search and rescue and Special Forces operations. 
      The first production A-10A was delivered to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Ariz., in October 1975. It was designed specially for the close air support mission and had the ability to combine large military loads, long loiter and wide combat radius, which proved to be vital assets to America and its allies during Operation Desert Storm. In the Gulf War, A-10s, with a mission capable rate of 95.7 percent, flew 8,100 sorties and launched 90 percent of the AGM-65 Maverick missiles.  

A-10A Thunderbolt " Desert Storm"
Premier Series.  Loaded with weapons.
1/43rd scale.  17" wingspan x 15.5" long.
  No. AGA1D-PB.  Only $209.95
A-10 Thunderbolt
Premier Series.  Loaded with weapons.
1/43rd scale.  17" wingspan x 15.5" long.
  No. AGA1D-PA.  Only  $209.95
A-10 Thunderbolt - AF Reserves
Premier Series.  Loaded with weapons.
1/43rd scale.  17" wingspan x 15.5" long.
  No. AGA1D-PC. Only $209.95
A-10 Thunderbolt
Deluxe Series.  1/40th scale.
17.25" wingspan x 16" long.
  No. AGA1D-DX.  Only $159.95
A-10 Thunderbolt
Standard Series.  1/48th scale.
15" wingspan x 13.25" long.
  No. AGA1D-ST.  Only $129.95
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