Length: 8.75 inches
Width: 9.75 inches
October 1975 saw delivery of the first USAF A-10a and deployment in March 1976. Built
specifically for close ground support the pilot is protected by titanium armor while being
covered by a bubble canopy giving a commanding view. The Warthog has everything
needed to survive, dual engines; self-sealing fuel cells; redundant flight control systems
protected by titanium armor; a 30 mm seven-barrel Gatling gun; a wide array of bombs
and missiles. This plane packs a heavy punch and can stay on scene a long time to
deliver.
In the Gulf War, A-10s had a mission capable rate of 95.7 percent, flew 8,100 sorties and
launched 90 percent of the AGM-65 Maverick missiles and were vital assets during
Operation Desert Storm and Operation Noble Anvil.
In 1972 the standard tail code for the 81st TFW became WR. On August 24th the first 3
aircraft arrived for maintenance training and on December 8, 1978 the first A-10 arrived
for active service. Operations continued at Bentwaters until March 23, 1993 when the last
2 A-10’s departed for their new home at Spangdahlem AB, Germany. The 81st TFW was
deactivated and on July 1, 1993 Bentwaters was formally closed. Up until that date there
had been an American presence for 42 years.