Intro
Uncover the power of the A10 Thunderbolts arsenal with our in-depth exploration of its ammo specs and capabilities. Discover the aircrafts formidable firepower, including its GAU-8 Avenger cannon and precise bomb delivery systems. Learn about its combat effectiveness, tactical advantages, and the impact of its ammunition on modern warfare.
The A10 Thunderbolt, also known as the Warthog, is a single-seat, twin-engine jet aircraft designed by Fairchild Republic for the United States Air Force. One of its most distinctive features is its armament, which includes a GAU-8/A Avenger 30mm cannon and a range of missiles and rockets. In this article, we'll delve into the specs and capabilities of the A10 Thunderbolt's ammo, exploring what makes it such a formidable force on the battlefield.
GAU-8/A Avenger Cannon
The GAU-8/A Avenger is a 30mm, seven-barrel Gatling-type cannon specifically designed for the A10 Thunderbolt. It's one of the largest and most powerful cannons ever mounted on a combat aircraft. Here are some key specs:
- Caliber: 30mm
- Barrel length: 2,200 mm (86.6 in)
- Rate of fire: 4,200 rounds per minute
- Muzzle velocity: 1,013 m/s (3,324 ft/s)
- Effective range: 4,000 meters (13,124 ft)
The GAU-8/A is designed to fire a range of ammunition, including:
- PGU-14/B Armor Piercing Incendiary (API) rounds
- PGU-13/B High Explosive Incendiary (HEI) rounds
- PGU-12/B Target Practice (TP) rounds
PGU-14/B Armor Piercing Incendiary (API) Rounds
The PGU-14/B API round is designed to penetrate armor and ignite flammable materials. It consists of a depleted uranium (DU) core with a steel jacket and a high-explosive tip.
- Weight: 0.45 kg (0.99 lb)
- Length: 233 mm (9.2 in)
- Penetration: Up to 69 mm (2.7 in) of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA)
PGU-13/B High Explosive Incendiary (HEI) Rounds
The PGU-13/B HEI round is designed to cause maximum damage to soft targets, such as buildings and vehicles. It consists of a high-explosive core with a steel jacket and a delayed-action fuse.
- Weight: 0.35 kg (0.77 lb)
- Length: 223 mm (8.8 in)
- Blast radius: Up to 10 meters (33 ft)
Missiles and Rockets
In addition to its cannon, the A10 Thunderbolt can carry a range of missiles and rockets, including:
- AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missiles
- AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles
- Hydra 70 rockets
AGM-65 Maverick Air-to-Surface Missiles
The AGM-65 Maverick is a tactical missile designed to engage armored targets. It consists of a high-explosive warhead and a rocket motor.
- Weight: 210 kg (463 lb)
- Length: 2.49 m (8.2 ft)
- Range: Up to 27 km (17 mi)
- Penetration: Up to 1 meter (3.3 ft) of RHA
AIM-9 Sidewinder Air-to-Air Missiles
The AIM-9 Sidewinder is a short-range air-to-air missile designed to engage enemy aircraft. It consists of a high-explosive warhead and a rocket motor.
- Weight: 85 kg (187 lb)
- Length: 2.85 m (9.4 ft)
- Range: Up to 18 km (11 mi)
- Speed: Up to Mach 2.5
Hydra 70 Rockets
The Hydra 70 is a 70mm rocket designed to engage soft targets, such as buildings and vehicles. It consists of a high-explosive warhead and a rocket motor.
- Weight: 10 kg (22 lb)
- Length: 1.5 m (4.9 ft)
- Range: Up to 8 km (5 mi)
- Blast radius: Up to 5 meters (16 ft)
Capabilities
The A10 Thunderbolt's armament provides a range of capabilities, including:
- Close air support (CAS): The A10 can provide precision firepower to ground troops, engaging armored targets and fortifications.
- Air-to-air combat: The A10 can engage enemy aircraft using its AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles.
- Battlefield interdiction: The A10 can attack enemy supply lines and logistics, disrupting their ability to wage war.
Tactical Employment
The A10 Thunderbolt is typically employed in a range of tactical scenarios, including:
- CAS missions: The A10 provides precision firepower to ground troops, engaging armored targets and fortifications.
- Escort missions: The A10 escorts friendly aircraft, providing protection from enemy air defenses.
- Reconnaissance missions: The A10 conducts reconnaissance, gathering intelligence on enemy positions and movements.
Gallery of A10 Thunderbolt Ammo
A10 Thunderbolt Ammo Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary armament of the A10 Thunderbolt?
+The primary armament of the A10 Thunderbolt is the GAU-8/A Avenger 30mm cannon.
What is the rate of fire of the GAU-8/A Avenger cannon?
+The rate of fire of the GAU-8/A Avenger cannon is 4,200 rounds per minute.
What is the effective range of the AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missile?
+The effective range of the AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missile is up to 27 km (17 mi).
We hope this article has provided a comprehensive overview of the A10 Thunderbolt's ammo specs and capabilities. From its powerful GAU-8/A Avenger cannon to its range of missiles and rockets, the A10 is a formidable force on the battlefield. Whether you're a military enthusiast or just interested in learning more about this iconic aircraft, we're glad you could join us on this journey into the world of the A10 Thunderbolt.