Designed specifically for close air support, the Warthog entered service in 1975. Literally built around the 30 mm GAU-8 Gatling gun, the A-10 is also capable of carrying a huge weapons payload under its wings and under the fuselage, including AGM-65 Maverick missiles. The A-10 is an extremely durable aircraft that has redundant hydraulic systems supported by manual systems. It can withstand direct hits from armor-piercing rounds without damage. It flew 8,100 missions during Operation Desert Storm, participated in actions in Afghanistan, and was a major battlefield weapon system during Operation Iraqi Freedom.

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