The A/OA Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specifically 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 pilots are protected by titanium armor that also protects parts of the flight-control system. The aircraft can survive direct hits from armor-piercing and high explosive projectiles up to 23mm. During the Gulf War, A-10s had a mission capable rate of 95.7 percent, flew 8,100 sorties and launched 90 percent of the AGM-65 Maverick missiles. It has a 30mm GAU-8/A Gatling gun that can fire 3,900 rounds a minute. During a visit to the Barry Goldwater Range in Southern Arizona I had the opportunity to see this aircraft and its gun in action. Between seeing the puffs of the rounds as they leave the aircraft, the puffs of dust on the berm where the rounds hit, and the sound of the supersonic rounds going through the air, all within a fraction of a second, is an unforgettable experience. This picture was taken on 20 March 2009. Thank you for viewing and commenting and any favs, Sig.....