In 2005, a program was started to upgrade remaining A-10A aircraft to the A-10C configuration, with modern avionics for use with precision weaponry. The A-10A single-seat variant was the only version produced, though one pre-production airframe was modified into the YA-10B twin-seat prototype to test an all-weather night capable version. The A-10 also participated in other conflicts such as in Grenada, the Balkans, Afghanistan, Iraq, and against the Islamic State in the Middle East. The A-10 served in the Gulf War ( Operation Desert Storm), the American–led intervention against Iraq's invasion of Kuwait, where the aircraft distinguished itself. Its short takeoff and landing capability permits operation from airstrips close to the front lines, and its simple design enables maintenance with minimal facilities. Its airframe was designed for durability, with measures such as 1,200 pounds (540 kg) of titanium armor to protect the cockpit and aircraft systems, enabling it to absorb a significant amount of damage and continue flying. The A-10 was designed around the 30 mm GAU-8 Avenger rotary cannon. The A-10 was intended to improve on the performance and firepower of the A-1 Skyraider. Aircraft used primarily in this role are designated OA-10.Īn A-10 with shark teeth nose art from the 74th Fighter Squadron after taking on fuel over Afghanistan Its secondary mission is to provide forward air controller-airborne support, by directing other aircraft in attacks on ground targets. It entered service in 1976 and is the only production-built aircraft that has served in the USAF that was designed solely for CAS. The A-10 was designed for close air support (CAS) of friendly ground troops, attacking armored vehicles and tanks, and providing quick-action support against enemy ground forces. It is commonly referred to by the nicknames " Warthog" or " Hog", although the A-10's official name comes from the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt, a World War II fighter-bomber effective at attacking ground targets. The Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II (not yet added) is a single-seat, twin turbofan engine, straight wing jet aircraft developed by Fairchild-Republic for the United States Air Force (USAF).