From: Robert Comer 

I don't know about B-52 service length, but I've always thought the A-10
was an astounding plane.  Able to take punishment, relatively cheap, and
great at what it does.

I really don't understand why the AF thinks it can replace it with a plane
designed as a fighter, it just can't be done.  The A-10's replacement is
going to have to be designed for the job like the A-10 was.

--
Bob Comer



On Wed, 06 Jun 2007 09:10:27 +0100, Ad
 wrote:

>A-10 being upgraded.....why? Because it is the best damn airforce
>support aircraft in Afghanistan & Iraq. Absolutely designed for the sort
>of war which the US finds itself in. No more Skyraider at one & F4 at
>t'other.
>
>
>The reason I am chuckling is that time after time after time the USAF
>has tried to "retire" the A10 coz it's not buzzword compliant e.g. no
>"BVR" or "stealth" or "21st century airland
battle capable" etc.etc.etc.
>
>But every time they try to retire em the Army has said "terrific we'll
>have em then" & suddenly retaining them has increased in appeal.
>
>http://www.defenseindustrydaily.com/2007/06/a-highertech-hog-the-a10c-pe-progr
am/index.php
>
>Well now they'll become at least partially buzzword compliant in that
>post upgrade they'll be able to fit into the "networked battlespace".
>
>Gosh who'da'thunk that the US mil might be engaged against hairy
>insurgents rather than a massive armoured thrust by a tooled up super
>power enemy now that the SU has collapsed......
>
>Any bets on the A10 outliving the F16? Reaching B52 service lengths?
>
>Adam
>

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