The A-10 Warthog, to me, is one of the most interesting weapon systems in the inventory. Don't misunderstand, I do like the gee-whiz factor of the F-22. And as much as I like the high-tech stuff, I also believe in the simplicity of the Warthog.
The aircraft that was designed in the early '70 has gone through a number of upgrades over the years. Some high tech has been added.
But the role of the aircraft remains the same. Deliver the 'gun'.
The 'Gun'. The 'Gun' is actually a GAU-8/A Avenger Autocannon. The total system weighs just over 4,000 pounds. The system can fire up to 3,900 rounds per minute accurately to 4,000 feet. Simplicity.
I saw the A-10s during Desert Storm. For clarity, I didn't see them in action, but while we were on a down range ramp waiting to be unloaded or for gas, most of the fighter aircraft we saw were F-15s and A-10s. We traveled among some good company.
So I'm always very happy when I see one in the air, or at a show. No afterburner. No noise. Just one of the coolest weapon systems, ever.
These are some shots from the Thunder over Michigan 2021 show. For the taxi shot, we were that close to the taxiway.
A-10 Close Taxi
NIKON D850 Ver.1.20/NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR
55 mm, 1/1250 sec, f/4.0, ISO 64
EV +1, MANUAL Mode, Size FX
I'm beginning to like the shots where the pilot is in view - and you can almost see see the flight panel.
A-10 Left Bank
NIKON D500 Ver.1.30/NIKKOR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6E ED VR
195 mm, 1/2000 sec, f/5.6, ISO 100
EV 0, MANUAL Mode, Size DX
A-10 Dirty Approach
NIKON D500 Ver.1.30/70.0-200.0 mm f/2.8
300 mm, 1/1600 sec, f/6.3, ISO 100
EV 0, MANUAL Mode, Size DX
Fun to watch it fly. Can't wait to see another demo flight in the future. Simple is good.
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