A-10 Thunderbolt

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The A-10 Thunderbolt, also known as the Warthog and Tankbuster, has been used extensively in several operations including Desert Storm, Enduring Freedom, and Iraqi Freedom. First flown in May 1972, the primary mission of the aircraft is ground attack against tanks, armored vehicles and installations, and close air support of ground forces.

Mounted on the nose is a GAU-8/A Avenger, a 30mm, seven-barrel Gatling gun capable of delivering 4,000 shots per minute (limited to two-second bursts to prevent overheating). This is the largest, heaviest, and most powerful gun in the United States.

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