Grunts in the Sky | The A10 Warthog leaked footage | A short documentary of the A-10 in action

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 1 ก.พ. 2022
  • A documentary about the A10 Warthog close air support jet was somehow leaked to the public on social media. The video, “Grunts in the Sky," was withheld from the general public until a Freedom of Information Act request was filed. It features interviews with A-10 pilots, the Air Force personnel who call in air strikes, and the U.S. Army troops they support on the ground.
    It is not exactly clear why the video was classified. Pilots and other personnel are referred to only by their call signs or pseudonyms, and the video does not seem to reveal any classified tactics, techniques, or procedures.
    “Grunts in the Sky” features interviews with A-10 pilots who explain how they made the decision to fly the A-10, and what it feels like to support troops in contact with the enemy-even hearing the crack of enemy gunshots over the radio while coordinating an air strike. It also interviews Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs), Air Force personnel that embed with ground troops and are trained to work with pilots to place bombs on target. Finally, U.S. Army troops describe what it’s like to work with an A-10 flying overhead.
    The video itself features some spectacular footage of A-10 Warthogs doing their thing, including low-level flight and firing the 30-millimeter GAU-8/A nose-mounted gatling gun at targets on the ground.
    The documentary takes its name from a JTAC who describes A-10 pilots as a breed apart from other Air Force pilots, having an outlook more like their ground-pounder counterparts, making them “grunts in the sky.”
    General characteristics
    Crew: 1
    Length: 53 ft 4 in (16.26 m)
    Wingspan: 57 ft 6 in (17.53 m)
    Height: 14 ft 8 in (4.47 m)
    Wing area: 506 sq ft (47.0 m2)
    Airfoil: NACA 6716 root, NACA 6713 tip
    Empty weight: 24,959 lb (11,321 kg)
    Gross weight: 30,384 lb (13,782 kg)
    CAS mission: 47,094 lb (21,361 kg)
    Anti-armor mission: 42,071 lb (19,083 kg)
    Max takeoff weight: 50,000 lb (22,700 kg)
    Fuel capacity: 11,000 lb (4,990 kg) internal
    Powerplant: 2 × General Electric TF34-GE-100A turbofans, 9,065 lbf (40.32 kN) thrust each
    Performance
    Maximum speed: 381 kn (439 mph, 706 km/h) at sea level, clean
    Cruise speed: 300 kn (340 mph, 560 km/h)
    Stall speed: 120 kn (138 mph, 220 km/h) at 30,000 lb (14,000 kg)
    Never exceed speed: 450 kn (518 mph, 833 km/h) at 5,000 ft (1,500 m) with 18 Mark 82 bombs
    Combat range: 220 nmi (250 mi, 400 km) CAS mission, 1.88 hour loiter at 5,000 ft (1,500 m), 10 min combat
    Ferry range: 2,240 nmi (2,580 mi, 4,150 km) with 50 knots (58 mph; 26 m/s) headwinds, 20 minutes reserve
    Service ceiling: 45,000 ft (13,700 m)
    Rate of climb: 6,000 ft/min (30 m/s)
    Wing loading: 99 lb/sq ft (482 kg/m2)
    Thrust/weight: 0.36
    Armament
    Guns: 1× 30 mm (1.18 in) GAU-8/A Avenger rotary cannon with 1,174 rounds
    Hardpoints: 11 (8× under-wing and 3× under-fuselage pylon stations) with a capacity of 16,000 lb (7,260 kg), with provisions to carry combinations of:
    Rockets:
    4× LAU-61/LAU-68 rocket pods (each with 19×/7× Hydra 70 mm/APKWS[203] rockets, respectively)
    6× LAU-131 rocket pods (each with 7× Hydra 70 rockets)
    Missiles:
    2× AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles for self-defense
    6× AGM-65 Maverick air-to-surface missiles
    Bombs:
    Mark 80 series of unguided 'iron' bombs or
    Mk 77 incendiary bombs or
    BLU-1, BLU-27/B, CBU-20 Rockeye II, BL755 and CBU-52/58/71/87/89/97 cluster bombs or
    Paveway series of Laser-guided bombs or
    Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) (A-10C) or
    Wind Corrected Munitions Dispenser
    Other:
    SUU-42A/A Flares/infrared decoys and chaff dispenser pod or
    AN/ALQ-131 or AN/ALQ-184 ECM pods or
    Lockheed Martin Sniper XR or Litening targeting pods or
    2× 600 US gal (2,300 L) Sargent Fletcher drop tanks for increased range/loiter time.
    #a10 #warthog #aircraft
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  • @Dronescapes
    @Dronescapes  2 ปีที่แล้ว +91

    Click the link to watch more aircraft, heroes and their stories, missions: www.youtube.com/@Dronescapes

    • @margob6203
      @margob6203 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Great uploads, thank you! I’ve always loved the Concorde. I lived in London for a couple of years in the late ‘70s and would see it all the time, a thrill that never got old. I still remember how devastated I felt when it crashed in Gonesse, not only for the loss of life but also the sight of that beautiful bird trailing that massive fireball behind her. A freak accident that wasn’t even due to mechanical failure but a piece of debris on the runway. So very sad.

    • @annymoususer677
      @annymoususer677 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Thank you to ALL of You A-10 Pilots for saving my bacon more than once! Semper Fi

    • @davidm6256
      @davidm6256 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      A-10 warthog is a incredible bad ass aircraft, not a service member but I am a avid military planes enthusiast, I can say that F4U Corsair is one aircraft that was in WWII can compare to the A-10 warthog

    • @joshhowell6
      @joshhowell6 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      the
      o
      I'm in
      oh
      ok
      come

    • @agreat8745
      @agreat8745 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @Concrete Head Yes, we must ensure Ukraine has LGBTQ2+ rights for children... it's our democracy and who we are.

  • @user-yj6cl1nf8c
    @user-yj6cl1nf8c ปีที่แล้ว +648

    I recall being in a state of mind, where I knew I was trapped, and no way to getting out alive. 1/2 mag left in my M4, and was pinned down by enemy fire from 3 positions for about 4 hours, wanting to call home and say goodbye, because I knew I was going to die. Then I hear 2 A-10s flank around from my rear left, its distinct sound was like a beacon from heaven. At that moment I knew I would be okay. Just the sound of the A-10s changed my whole mindset and at that point I knew would be able to see my family again.

    • @ant6541
      @ant6541 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Dude, that is freakin' awesome.

    • @amandacantrell1146
      @amandacantrell1146 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      That gave me cold chills.

    • @user-yj6cl1nf8c
      @user-yj6cl1nf8c ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@ant6541 I see your Alabama profile picture! I’m from Alabama!!!

    • @rickfrancis5480
      @rickfrancis5480 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Thank u sir also

    • @BergLaderg
      @BergLaderg ปีที่แล้ว

      but why were you there? for money? for a career? for health insurance? to kill others on their homeland? maybe what should have happened didn't.

  • @dfdemt
    @dfdemt 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2316

    You can’t imagine the relief we felt when A10s came on station and did a gun run. We knew we were gonna get to live to fight another day.

    • @gregorycowan5756
      @gregorycowan5756 2 ปีที่แล้ว +37

      Thank you !!

    • @worrier1272
      @worrier1272 2 ปีที่แล้ว +37

      Use done a great job guys im from the UK and I salute all use brave men and women well done and thanks for protecting the USA and UK and the innocent men women and children of Afganistan

    • @01ZO6TT
      @01ZO6TT 2 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      Thank you for your service!

    • @worrier1272
      @worrier1272 2 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      @@01ZO6TT sorry I wasn't in the army I was thanking the guys and women for protecting the USA and UK I don't no if you sent me the comment by mistake or to guy that put the video up cause it came through as if you were thanking me just thought I'd let you know mate

    • @BWill-dq9ri
      @BWill-dq9ri 2 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Hell yeah. We atleast knew we were gonna live til lunch.

  • @AnthonyJ504
    @AnthonyJ504 ปีที่แล้ว +102

    As a marine nothing was more pleasing than seeing an A-10 arriving on station when you are engaged. The sound of that canon? Absolute music to the ears...

    • @Dronescapes
      @Dronescapes  ปีที่แล้ว

      👍🙂

    • @bradhasemeyer5137
      @bradhasemeyer5137 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Thank you for your service. What you did matters!

    • @KevinTanaka
      @KevinTanaka 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      brrrrt

    • @thomasgirty6397
      @thomasgirty6397 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      PLUS SCARES THE SHIT OUT OF THE ENEMY.

  • @TheSlider6997
    @TheSlider6997 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +30

    12B here, OEF 11-12. My PLT was saved by an A10 on several occasions. Will always appreciate this plane and that beautiful sound of destruction, it will never get old.

  • @proudpatriot3491
    @proudpatriot3491 2 ปีที่แล้ว +634

    As a former Army Infantryman I just want to thank you. I'll never forget what you guys did for us, ever.

    • @viking90706
      @viking90706 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      buuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRROP!

    • @totogashloog2162
      @totogashloog2162 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      It takes the whole of our military to work together to make us effective.
      Thank you for your service.

    • @MjC7192
      @MjC7192 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Big, ugly, loud, deadly and absofrigginglutely Awesome

    • @turbotonye-4124
      @turbotonye-4124 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Agreed. God bless those guys. I honestly don’t think I would be here today if not for the Hog pilot’s.

    • @oneart6002
      @oneart6002 ปีที่แล้ว

      You killed because you were told to do so. You can't think for yourself.

  • @corden9941
    @corden9941 2 ปีที่แล้ว +825

    During the invasion of Iraq in 2003, my life was saved by the A-10 more than once. Much respect to those planes and their pilots. Thank you! 🙏

    • @Dronescapes
      @Dronescapes  2 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      👍👍

    • @surfingonmars8979
      @surfingonmars8979 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      God bless ‘em……. And ALL the US MILITARY!

    • @ouiroc
      @ouiroc ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Thank you welcome home brother

    • @MrDoyle07
      @MrDoyle07 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thank You Too, Brother. We Will Never Forget!

    • @yeahman147
      @yeahman147 ปีที่แล้ว

      I'd be questioning the decisions made that put you in danger against a country that has no army. They were founded in 1997. Imagine losing 5 wars since ww2 and being proud to be a clone of the jwe

  • @machinist5828
    @machinist5828 ปีที่แล้ว +223

    The highlight of my Air Force career was being a machinist/welder on the A-10. I felt like I had lost an old friend when the squadrons were moved to another base and I was left behind on another airframe.
    I had previously been a bomber and tanker guy and all those aircraft on the alert pads were a "what if" mission. Don't get me wrong, seeing those bombers on alert, loaded and ready to go was very sobering. It was a sudden realization that you were looking at Armageddon.
    But it was still very abstract.
    The A-10s made a direct difference that you heard and felt true gratitude for. It made you work a bit harder, stay a bit longer and train a lot better. I truly felt that I was making a difference and it made me step up.
    I'm glad something that I did gave you the need to "shit your pants".
    LOL!
    It was my honor to be part of the big picture that helped get you all back alive.
    God Bless
    SSgt Brelsford, USAF. 83-96.

    • @gamesvibronicbrush8228
      @gamesvibronicbrush8228 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      hell ya mechanics dont get very much recognition and respect and in the end you are right at the end of the day you did help all these men come home to us god bless your hard work and service

    • @colb9916
      @colb9916 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Without you guys , assets come in shot to hell and they get pushed to the side for scrap and spare parts.
      Skinned knuckles, metal cuts ,sparks down your shirt, welder flash and burned fingers.
      Thats your blood and sweat that keep the guns flying and those guys in the dirt covered.
      You may not be under fire, but without you, those multi million dollar pilots are punching walls in ready rooms with no airframe to fly.
      Those lives saved are put on your + sheet when you meet your maker.
      Im sure they all have a special place in their hearts for you all.
      Stand Proud SSgt. Without guys like you, nothing leaves the ground.

    • @machinist5828
      @machinist5828 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@colb9916 thank you!

    • @MikeWarner-ho9dz
      @MikeWarner-ho9dz 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      Thank you machinist. I was a jet engine mechanic on some great airframes, AC-130's, F-15's and A-10's. It was often long grueling night shift flight line hours, hot, freezing cold, wet, dirty. It gives me a greater sense of pride knowing the ground troops could rely on our planes to get them out of a jam when needed. Thanks to all for your service. I wouldn't trade my twenty year career for anything!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

    • @joseblanco3419
      @joseblanco3419 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      😊

  • @doyline45
    @doyline45 ปีที่แล้ว +80

    One A10 pilot many years ago had an inflight emergency where his hands were burned and he landed that plane safely. If he would have ejected while on final approach, that plane could have crashed in our subdivision. The news media had no coverage of this Hero’s actions. I pray he continued his career. One Hero!

  • @1970swimmer
    @1970swimmer 2 ปีที่แล้ว +396

    As a Canadian infantry guy in 2007, in Kandahar we were provided some intimate close accurate support like nothing else. Great pilots who are good at what they do.

    • @ericbradbury7743
      @ericbradbury7743 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Panjwai valley gun club ❤🇨🇦

    • @disaszterful
      @disaszterful ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Honestly, I respect those boys so much... They're like ambulance gun heroes...

    • @gamesvibronicbrush8228
      @gamesvibronicbrush8228 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      hell ya gotta love are pilots huh

    • @andrewbisbee9251
      @andrewbisbee9251 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      hell yeah Canada you guys are are badass brothers to the north

    • @KyleCorfman-io1zr
      @KyleCorfman-io1zr หลายเดือนก่อน

      Thanks for your service ehh

  • @dirtybuttsteve2827
    @dirtybuttsteve2827 ปีที่แล้ว +487

    As a retired grunt I must say that the A-10 is the most beautiful thing in the sky! There’s something to be said for a big, beautiful, flying gun that’s piloted by the bravest people in the skies!

    • @MjC7192
      @MjC7192 ปีที่แล้ว

      Big, ugly, loud, deadly and absofrigginglutely Awesome

    • @turbotonye-4124
      @turbotonye-4124 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      Same here. I honestly don’t think I would be here if it wasn’t for those Hog pilots.

    • @ouiroc
      @ouiroc ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Anything wrapped around a Vulcan 30 millimeter Canon is tops in my book

    • @olliedee
      @olliedee ปีที่แล้ว +16

      People say they're ugly, when you're taking fire they're the most beautiful thing you ever saw

    • @NerdGlassGamingPA
      @NerdGlassGamingPA ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I imagine it would be somewhat similar to seeing an angel coming down from the sky to save you and kill your enemies.

  • @pozimoto5447
    @pozimoto5447 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    As a prior FO and JFO, A10 pilots have THE best personalities. 10/10 class acts who will save your life if you need.

  • @ccramit
    @ccramit ปีที่แล้ว +16

    Nothing like an A-10 gun run during a firefight that makes you feel like you are going to be OK. Former infantryman here who still loves that sound.

  • @douglasboyce4627
    @douglasboyce4627 2 ปีที่แล้ว +176

    I was on the ground when they helped us , simply “I Love them” and grateful for their ability!!!!! Thank you.

    • @user-sx9hu2nl8t
      @user-sx9hu2nl8t 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      God Bless all our US Military for their courage, honor, and love of their brothers at arms. A Vietnam Veteran, 6 years active.

  • @gysgttedlovell1003
    @gysgttedlovell1003 2 ปีที่แล้ว +151

    The A-10 to us Marines on the ground is like big brother. Ti hear the whine of the engines and know that gun run is coming is a huge relief. These pilots both male and female have saved our asses more times them I can count. We truly love them

    • @ashsherman
      @ashsherman 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      That Whoosh and then "BRRRRRRRRRRR" sound is the very best thing ever when under fire.

  • @jayfermin7449
    @jayfermin7449 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    This is the best close air support chunk of metal that ever flew. No mention here about it's pully system that also gets pilots home safe when shot and electric avionics fail. A-10 pilots can rely on it's steel cable pully system to stay afloat and has literally saved lives in combat. What a well thought out piece of machinery. This aircraft should never be retired.

  • @skwlogistics3698
    @skwlogistics3698 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I live close to moody air force base, and when you hear those A10's flying over and that gun going off, I can't help but feel proud to be an American !!

  • @danielmarso7242
    @danielmarso7242 2 ปีที่แล้ว +411

    I was a Marine infantryman in the 60's , and our oldest Son was a Marine Infantryman in Desert Storm , we both say ,
    God bless the A-10 ,and God Bless the A-10 PILOTS ❤️❤️❤️ !

    • @reynaldoaleman1602
      @reynaldoaleman1602 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      USA is not match for Russia

    • @davidatkinson8515
      @davidatkinson8515 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Thank you both for your service. God Bless you both. The United State Marine Corps was my first choice for military service. It didn't work out for me but I did have the honor of being a police officer. You Marines are some bad asses.

    • @forcesightknight
      @forcesightknight 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Was? Trust me brother, your still in the fraternity.
      Semper fi

    • @georgefloydsinhellwbreonna5330
      @georgefloydsinhellwbreonna5330 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@reynaldoaleman1602 cool story bro

    • @mandylou-who136
      @mandylou-who136 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Thank you and your protege of a son so much for your service!!!

  • @itsryannelson
    @itsryannelson ปีที่แล้ว +163

    Even just reading these comments of all the soldiers, you can see what these A-10s meant to the folks on the ground. New respect for this beautiful airplane, and all of my gratitude to the men and women who risk their lives for our freedom. From the bottom of my heart, thank you

    • @Dronescapes
      @Dronescapes  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      👍👍🇺🇸

    • @TheMega12121
      @TheMega12121 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      how is our freedom at jeopardy? your freedom is at risk to the government!

  • @michaelreed9805
    @michaelreed9805 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    I've watched one of these pilots dive his hog straight down onto the target and evaporated it with hardly enough space to safely pull out of such a steep dive. The mountainous terrain restricts or limits how you put certain ordinance on the target. the extra crazy effort this pilot made earned my respect instantly. a handful of on the ground watching in disbelief and saying in unison "holy shite" did you see that! saved our rear ends by a much larger force that we were trading bullets with. Their numbers grew as our ammo ran low in the span of 20 to 30 minutes. We were outnumbered I estimate close to 10 to 1. although we were inflicting heavy losses they had reinforcements arriving nonstop. That fearless crazy pilot leveled them with pi point accuracy...I'm here today because of that pilot. What a day. My MRE tasted better than it ever had that night and my water cold as ice...life was good. Salute

  • @outdooradventuresanddiving10
    @outdooradventuresanddiving10 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Much respect boys and girls that were stick holders, you kept alot of us grunts in the fight......

  • @davocc2405
    @davocc2405 2 ปีที่แล้ว +429

    Love that term "grunts in the sky" - I remember a group of British troops describing it as the most beautiful sight in the world, the pilot stayed in the area at HUGE personal risk while they evacuated too.

    • @rtruth8378
      @rtruth8378 2 ปีที่แล้ว +35

      Huge respect to the USA armed forces .Second to none on this planet. God Bless you all from this Alberta 🙏 Canadian

    • @zzzaccounting5924
      @zzzaccounting5924 2 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      We are all parts of a well oiled machine. 🇺🇸 🇬🇧 🇨🇦

    • @Aj_Porsche
      @Aj_Porsche 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@zzzaccounting5924 yes who all ran off lol

    • @popeyedoyle3649
      @popeyedoyle3649 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Aj_Porsche 👈 mommy's little curtain climber that never got to go outside and play!

    • @Aj_Porsche
      @Aj_Porsche 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@popeyedoyle3649 typical response from someone who couldnt respond to the comment lol... Well it is true you all ran off, after being nosy lol... Mommy's little boy met the priest )))

  • @PwnyDwn
    @PwnyDwn ปีที่แล้ว +105

    I remember every single time that aircraft saved my life. If not for the A10 I wouldn't be here today. Those guys were our guardian Angels.

    • @Dronescapes
      @Dronescapes  ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Thank for sharing

    • @bradhasemeyer5137
      @bradhasemeyer5137 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

      Thank you for your service. What you did matters!

  • @olliedee
    @olliedee ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I remember reading about the A10 in a magazine when I was 10 years old, 40 years later its still my favourite plane ❤️

  • @aussiehardwood6196
    @aussiehardwood6196 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    Many thanks to all those A10 pilots and those associated with keeping them in the air.

  • @jamescrabtree3469
    @jamescrabtree3469 2 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    I met a group of Wild Weasels who came to NAF El Centro back in the mid 90s. We met on the night before the Blues Air Show. Crazy group of A10 and F4 pilots and I, since I was a local, we ended up down in Mexicali. We saw the sun come up as I came back to base to drop them off. They gave me their patch on their shoulders prior to their departure two days later. I still cherish the patches given to me. As a patriot, I had the honor of meeting some of the baddest group of men who I'm sure served later when the Desert Storm began. I have always prayed for them, although we vowed to meet again, it unfortunately didn't happen... I'm sure God Blessed them with good lives after the military service. At least I hope so..... Thank you is not enough for these brave men and women.

  • @merikano2985
    @merikano2985 2 ปีที่แล้ว +177

    I remember reading a book about leadership and its prologue identified a story told through the eyes of A10 pilot Johnny Bravo and this CAS foggy night mission he flew in Afghanistan. The Joes were in a valley taking fire from every direction and all Johnny had to rely on to help him in saving their lives were topographical map surveys from the Soviets in the 1980s. He told his wingman to hang back as from the maps he reckoned he had ten seconds of room to strafe an enemy and pull up, otherwise he'd crash into the side of a mountain. If he didn't time it right, then at least his wingman could still provide the air support those troops in need. But with zero visibility Johnny Bravo did it and managed to save a lot of lives that night. Afterward he said the biggest reward he got was later getting to meet those Joes who had been stuck in that valley. Very emotional experience that demonstrated the skill and commitment those pilots have to their brothers on the ground.

    • @johngerry1096
      @johngerry1096 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I worked at Republic field just before they moved the A 10 to Maryland.

  • @eduardopena5893
    @eduardopena5893 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    My father worked for Fairchild Industries and helped design this plane. There is a sort of strange love affair with it as it is the item that put Fairchild on the map, but also helped destroy it. They built something that lasted. That did its job exceedingly well. It was too good.
    What a lot of you might not know is that Fairchild also did missile guidance systems for LAMPS which was used in Apache Helicopters. Later when they became Orbital Sciences, they created the first cell phone technology and satellites. They created the first GPS system as well.
    Why is the A-10 so good? Because they understood the role of the plane. They knew it was essentially an anti-tank plane. They knew that in order to provide ground support it would need to fly low and slow. That is why they came up with the "flying bathtub" cockpit design to help give the pilot some protection. They also knew these planes would get shot at and hit. So they were engineered to fly with one wing and one engine missing. Ask around and you will hear tales of the planes landing themselves and flying themselves after taking heavy damage and with the pilots being unconscious.
    The not so secret weapon of the plane obviously lies within the 30mm rotary cannon. Fairchild understood the new armor technology of the tanks coming out, so they developed the new type of bullet that used depleted uranium to melt through the armor and then explode. I don't know if they understood at the time the health impact having all those spent radioactive shells would have on the health of soldiers and my Dad still gets a bit emotional when he thinks about it.
    This plane was designed in the late 60's and built in the 70's. Nothing can beat it at the roles it does to this day. They are merely phasing it out because they can't get any more of them and parts are harder and harder to come by.

  • @mclarenscca
    @mclarenscca ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I was fresh out of boot camp, and got stationed at Pendleton 1987. I knew what the A-10 looked like, but never heard one! It's a sound that gives you goosebumps, and makes you smile! You never forget it!

  • @TheErikWulf
    @TheErikWulf 2 ปีที่แล้ว +236

    Thanks A-10 Drivers, from a former Infantryman! Y'all are our heroes! 🇺🇸

    • @Dronescapes
      @Dronescapes  2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Right on

    • @finchisneat
      @finchisneat 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Drivers or pilots? Or is that a bit pedantic of me to ask because they're more interchangeable in this context than I realize?
      Just asking out of pure curiosity.

    • @corbinfralick809
      @corbinfralick809 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@finchisneat author's choice there I think. :) cheers.

    • @donnacook5552
      @donnacook5552 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Amazing A-10! Thank you all for what you do! I'm a military brat and dreamed of flying but females weren't allowed. I love and admire our military so much 🤩❤️ Stay strong and safe, and God bless you all, you're amazing! 🙏🇺🇲🌟🌟🗽 You're my heroes!!!

    • @thomaslembo5715
      @thomaslembo5715 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I'm one of the lucky ones who had the privilege to build the A-10@ Fairchild Republic on Strong Island back in the day. As I like to say "My gun has a plane"!!!Was also making some serious bucks!!! Still in service, what a value for our country ✈️

  • @Hammernms
    @Hammernms 2 ปีที่แล้ว +49

    I was in an A-10. My only thought was saving my brother's on the ground. That was mission #1.

    • @michaelfleming5999
      @michaelfleming5999 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      👍🇺🇸🫡

    • @thomasgirty6397
      @thomasgirty6397 15 วันที่ผ่านมา +1

      combined arm's at it's best. AS IT SHOULD BE !!!!!

  • @jcriley7695
    @jcriley7695 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    It’s hard to fathom how insane flying those machines must be. Video footage gives me chills sometimes, I can only imagine what that pilot must be feeling getting missions completed and the relief they bring to the soldiers they’re protecting.

  • @briandobson5135
    @briandobson5135 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

    Those A10's are a thing of beauty and their pilots are guardian angels to the ground troops!

    • @user-sx9hu2nl8t
      @user-sx9hu2nl8t 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      The shear guts these pilots have separates them from the others. Flying low in constant harm's way and completely dedicated to protecting their ground troop brothers... well, there are no words that are honorable enough to say about them.

    • @thomasgirty6397
      @thomasgirty6397 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      the pilot's are close enough to see and FEEL the ground guy's. not true for jet's.

  • @guillermojensen1332
    @guillermojensen1332 2 ปีที่แล้ว +465

    I can't understand why so many people call the H-10 ugly. It's beautiful, well designed, rough and tough. Her sound is the sound of freedom

    • @kuiper921
      @kuiper921 2 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      I never saw that either with the A-10, such a cool airplane

    • @MrGaryGG48
      @MrGaryGG48 2 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      It's an excellent solution to the problem it was designed to solve. I think that old saying applies, that "Form follows Function," and this "Form" functions really well!! To the troops on the ground that's more than just beautiful!

    • @concorde1793
      @concorde1793 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      It was going so well until 'the sound of freedom'

    • @whydahell3816
      @whydahell3816 2 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Just like a real man. Sorta pretty and tougher then dried leather, mud grips, and bubble gun.

    • @corbinfralick809
      @corbinfralick809 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @@concorde1793 lol it's not easy to slip the cliche's when you've been steeped in the culture...

  • @johnshifflette1218
    @johnshifflette1218 2 ปีที่แล้ว +258

    I did alot of roofing in Delaware back in the early to mid 80's and saw many A-10 aircraft. They flew only a few feet above tree lines and you could only hear them just before seeing them. So impressive and had several occasions when on the peak of a roof I would rock my arms and the pilot would acknowledge me by rocking his aircraft. That was an awesome, the most awsome treat as a roofer. I can only imagine the relief of seeing an A-10 overhead on the battlefield. Has always been my favorite aircraft since my first encounter! ❤ God Bless any and all military personnel 🙏🏻🇺🇲🌬☠

    • @welcometofranknomenal5312
      @welcometofranknomenal5312 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Sir I platonically love you. You are an amazing man and a great AMERICAN. UUUURRRRAHH

    • @phillamoore157
      @phillamoore157 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      Now THAT is a cool f**king story…. Working your tail off on a hot roof, and an A-10 comes along over tree-top level, and tilts his wings at you. Not many people can say that. 👍

    • @deborahchesser7375
      @deborahchesser7375 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@phillamoore157 if they see that you know your signals pretty good they will usually respond, it’s pretty flattering to have a pilot notice you at 500 mph

    • @harbarjor4394
      @harbarjor4394 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Appreciation to the builders&flyers of such a beautiful aircraft.It saves our guys' lives . As did "Puff The Magic Dragon" back in Nam.AND don't forget the ammo manufactorers making rounds for guns that can fire 6000 rpm.Got to stay ahead of the 'game'.Givem all a raise.

    • @danscriber5741
      @danscriber5741 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@deborahchesser7375 \|||

  • @garou5333
    @garou5333 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    It's truly awesome how in tune the pilots are with what the job is & how relied on they are. Type of guys you don't gotta question to be there or have your back when needed.

  • @rache_der_ente2381
    @rache_der_ente2381 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    I Love how respectful and thankful everybody speaks to each other. A Great Clip how a Army works together

  • @Briathos1
    @Briathos1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +65

    This gave me chills to watch. Grateful for the selfless acts it takes from the guys on the ground and in the air.

  • @chucksinger1916
    @chucksinger1916 2 ปีที่แล้ว +44

    Always loved the A-10 from the beginning! Glad DOD is keeping it Awesome plane

  • @leewilkerson8185
    @leewilkerson8185 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    It is so cool that I found this video now after having just watched A-10s doing mock dogfights and ground support as they flew out over Bear Lake, NJ. It was one of the highlights of my vacation.

  • @hogchief
    @hogchief ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Proud to have wrenched on the hogs to keep ‘em flying’. 355th TFW, Fighting Falcons. It was an honor to work with so many professional team members. We had the quickest combat turn record ever recorded. Fuel, bullets, rockets, and missiles; like Indy 500!

  • @russhoffman6301
    @russhoffman6301 ปีที่แล้ว +90

    I walked around the A10 while stationed in Germany from 87-89. It is an amazing aircraft and the pilots that fly them are an outstanding group of people.

  • @donjohnson6186
    @donjohnson6186 ปีที่แล้ว +63

    I was an inspector on the A10's and it was a great honor to know that you were part of creating a beast on the battle field that was a devastating force on. The enemy and the best friend of our brothers on the ground!

    • @eduardopena5893
      @eduardopena5893 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You might have worked with my Dad then, who was one of the designers of the plane.

  • @DJTheMetalheadMercenary
    @DJTheMetalheadMercenary ปีที่แล้ว +8

    The A-10 is our spirit animal, absolutely love that aircraft and those pilots.

  • @bobsemp
    @bobsemp ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Loved the A10 from the first time I laid eyes on one. Its the perfect plane for ground support. It just doesn't get any better than the Hog - may it live forever!

  • @Towerr72
    @Towerr72 2 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    To all that are replying that served...THANK YOU very much for your service! I have nothing but the utmost respect for you all.

  • @secesh7184
    @secesh7184 2 ปีที่แล้ว +48

    I was an ETAC. (Controlled close air support). The A-10 was an amazing weapons platform, not to mention time on target availability. Best gig I ever had!

  • @Sabotage_Labs
    @Sabotage_Labs 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    THANK YOU!!! Thank you A10 pilots, Crew Chief and Crew!!! Thank you for taking such good care of my son, a Recon Marine who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, and making sure he got home to us safe! He's said that one of the coolest things he had done in Combat is calling in a 9 Line to you guys... and then knowing he as his team wer safe. More than once you got them out of harms way and for that, you have his Mother's, mine and our entire families respect and gratitude!
    In WW2, the grunts "Angels on our Shoulders" was the P51. Today... its the A10! God bless the A10 and all those who pilot it and the crews that support them! Without you, a lot of Marines and Army soldiers wouldn't come home!!! Thank you!

  • @Rooster2628
    @Rooster2628 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Since a small boy in the mid 80s, this plane has been my favorite because it's right there in the action. It swoops in and saves the day up close and personal.

  • @billucf96
    @billucf96 2 ปีที่แล้ว +58

    Close air support of ground troops will never go out of style.

    • @Aj_Porsche
      @Aj_Porsche 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      They do when they run off lol

    • @anydaynow01
      @anydaynow01 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      So true, with every major conflict that involved air support, air forces eventually learned to take the most rugged aircraft they had and assigned them to ground attack duty. Eventually the USAF wised up with Vietnam and developed the A-10 with the knowledge from the most legendary ground attack pilot of all time, Hans-Ulrich Rudel. Fly below the radar, take small arms fire, deliver ordinance on target, and carry a big gun for cleaning up armored targets. Even the Soviets learned their lesson and developed the SU-25, which the Ukrainians are handing out hell at grape harvesting level with them now, and the cocky Russians are getting shot down because they are flying too high into radar and AA traps.

  • @charleshenderson5347
    @charleshenderson5347 2 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    I did 9 deployments, those guys saved my ass more than once.... Eternally grateful to them.

  • @michaelbaka4777
    @michaelbaka4777 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I've been friends with a lot of combat vets from Iraq and Afganistan. I was always State-side [medical]. These battle-hardened warriors would tear up when they heard A-10's were coming for close-in ground support! They knew they would most likely be going home in one piece! It's not a sexy plane, but these things are literally flying TANKS. Almost NOTHING can knock these planes down, they can handle a ridiculous amount of damage and still be mission-capable. Not to mention when the enemy hears that "Brrrrrrrrrrrrt", they run away crying for their mamas. I LOVE the A-10, any time, any place, any weather, and most any mission!!

  • @cyrusatkinson3307
    @cyrusatkinson3307 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I had the honor of being on range in Germany seeing live A10 fire. It is literally life changing. The VEEERRRRRRRRRP from miles away you can feel in our chest... I can't imagine how this beast makes the enemy feel. Thank you "sky grunts"

  • @golden36
    @golden36 2 ปีที่แล้ว +54

    The A-10 is the sweetest and most loved support aircraft to all ground personnel , my reason for this statement is simple when your surrounded by the enemy and getting closer to your demise, and that sexy A-10 shows up to take care of business , and business it really does take care of , your heart moves back into your chest away from your throat, all ground troops have a love affair with the amazing A-10 (weather they will admit it or not - being too manly), I thank the A-10 and all of the brave pilots who fly them. A10’s are the GREATEST AND KEEP THEM FLYING.

    • @TheErikWulf
      @TheErikWulf 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Grunts best friend: a Warthog! 🤘🏻🇺🇸

    • @garyedwards278
      @garyedwards278 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I agree wholeheartedly but don't forget the Ac130, it was also very well loved.

    • @Potato-pl5cr
      @Potato-pl5cr 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@garyedwards278 true, but less available sadly

  • @paulnelson2362
    @paulnelson2362 2 ปีที่แล้ว +266

    I've always loved this air frame, to me it's one of the most beautiful planes in the world.
    Not to mention, damn near indestructible.
    The pilots of these gorgeous jets are second to none, they are a special breed that deserves nothing but respect.
    My wife calls them my mistress, because everytime I see one it takes my full attention.
    All of you American service members have my respect and gratitude for everything you do for north America.
    Thank you for your service.
    Nothing but respect from Canada.
    And yes, I have the same love and respect for our Canadian military.
    "Just for the comment trolls"

    • @ashsherman
      @ashsherman 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Thank you and dont listen to the Trumpers calling Canada Fascist. They are the ones trying their damndest to change us from democracy to fascism. Or really a fake Democracy kinda like what Hungary ,Turkey, and a few other nations are turning into. Autocratic type leaders but still aligned with the West with a semblance of Democracy through policies which keep 1 party in power indefinitely.,
      JUST LIKE WHAT HAPPENED TO RUSSIA after Putin.
      WE HAVE ALL BEEN WATCHING BC THE CRAZINESS OVER COVID RESTRICTIONS UP THEIR.
      ASKING FOR SAFETY MEASURES IN A PANDEMIC IS NOT TYRANNICAL OR FASCIST.

    • @XploreAz
      @XploreAz 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@ashsherman I don't see any comments calling Canada fascist, except yours.

    • @irishgrl
      @irishgrl 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@XploreAz
      Then you aren’t paying attention.

    • @XploreAz
      @XploreAz 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@irishgrl I guess you need your eyes checked also.

    • @jonm2416
      @jonm2416 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Hell, Canadian forces during WWII were some of the most bad assed units in some of the heaviest action!!

  • @tesladrive1152
    @tesladrive1152 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    I've seen the A10 at many airshows! Its an awesome airplane! Like the grunts on the ground it goes in harms way! God Bless the people who designed and built this aircraft, and the aviators who fly it!

  • @stevencano2395
    @stevencano2395 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    The best way I can describe the A10 ..."An angel to some, and a demon to many others"...most awe inspiring memory I have was seeing damn near a squadron of A10s fully armed to the gills taking off one by one at Talil airbase in Iraq 03

  • @82lowe36id
    @82lowe36id 2 ปีที่แล้ว +156

    As an Infantryman in the Army, I loved seeing and hearing the A10 overhead. Amazing birds and BIG moral booster. Gives me chills hearing it in this video. Good seing the boys from the double A in the video.

    • @TheBandit7613
      @TheBandit7613 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      We have been stalked by the A10. We have performance SxS's and really roll thru the desert. A couple of A10's saw us and must of decided to use us for practice.
      We tried to evade them but no way. OF COURSE we weren't fired on, they just chased us for a short time. It was fun for all of us. But I realized that there are no ground vehicles that can escape an A10 if they don't want you to. We have turbo Can Ams with 21" of suspension travel.

    • @jamescooley7849
      @jamescooley7849 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I too was 82nd Infanty, and we salute you and that marvelous aircraft

    • @almightyrer2285
      @almightyrer2285 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      They fly over my house from time to time coming from Selfridge, I live just west of Flint/Bishop Airport, and nothing sounds quite like them. Anytime I hear them coming I run outside like a madman hoping to catch a glimpse. My wife thinks I'm a psycho but 🤷‍♂️

    • @EricScott-jr8wl
      @EricScott-jr8wl ปีที่แล้ว +1

      C.Lowe, WELCOME HOME. SGT DOUG, 1/502, 101ABN, RVN, 68-69

    • @bobmoser9609
      @bobmoser9609 ปีที่แล้ว

      Hi my name is Bob and I think The A_ 10 Warthog is still a top notch fighter Jet and keep it in commission God Bless You Pilots deserve a depth of Gratitude Thank you so much for you Pilots and dedication for our freedom as a Veteran myself as a 95 BRAVO also 2 brothers who served proudly United States Navy on The USS Ashtabula in name and my other brother who Served in the United States Infantry 7th Infantry division and was sent to Panama for duty then saw some action in South Korea this is going back many years but it is sad to say both brothers had passed Sgt Stephen Moser USA 7th. INFANTRY DIVISION FT Ord Ca. And PETTY Officer Joseph Moser USS Ashtabula Ann a Couple of other Destroyers I just want to say GOD Bless and all our MILITARY of the USA Including the POW,S and The MIA'S and Current USA MILITARY Personnel Tan k You for your SERVICE to The best Country in the World Bob M.

  • @randysylvara8544
    @randysylvara8544 2 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    Army combat vet here this is the plane and it pilot that have a special place in my heart. They helped me to survive and return to my wife a kids. May they fly forever!

  • @KerryWaldrip
    @KerryWaldrip ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you fly boy grunts. The sound is unforgettable, and does sound like freedom.

  • @jasonhuff7725
    @jasonhuff7725 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    As an Infantry soldier knowing that the A10 was above was an awesome feeling

    • @Dronescapes
      @Dronescapes  ปีที่แล้ว +4

      The A-10 seems to have that very reassuring effect. Thank you for your service

  • @j.rashid8257
    @j.rashid8257 2 ปีที่แล้ว +248

    To all you guys on the ground, thank you! Your courage when shtf doesn't go unnoticed. A10 pilots thank you for keeping our men and women in the fight.

    • @Rottingboards
      @Rottingboards 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thanks...USAF 46250

    • @tombrooks3812
      @tombrooks3812 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thank you A10,and the pilots that brought hells fire to the front.Those guys on the ground lived to fight another day. Here's to freedom.🍺🍻🍺

    • @Darmesis
      @Darmesis 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Youz Guyz THA BEST! 👍🙏

    • @j.rashid8257
      @j.rashid8257 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Rottingboards USN NMMP DOD MOBILE UINIT 3 (trainer).

    • @Rottingboards
      @Rottingboards 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@j.rashid8257 I'm not sure what all the mammal program does but I'm guessing it's fishy. :-)

  • @Sh4tterdL0g1c
    @Sh4tterdL0g1c 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    The comments I’m seeing from service members on the immediate relief they felt once they heard the a-10s rolling in…it really has me feeling a way I don’t know how to describe. God bless those pilots and all of you that have served

  • @hr1meg
    @hr1meg ปีที่แล้ว +10

    A flying tank that easily is a first round Hall of Famer amongst all aircraft ever made.

  • @daleeasternbrat816
    @daleeasternbrat816 2 ปีที่แล้ว +59

    Certain aircraft are capable of state of the art performance no matter when they were designed and built. Their manifestly obvious and self evident usefulness, longevity and economical operation are proven by many types of flying machines. The Concorde, the Space Shuttle and (surprisingly) the F-14 are all gone. The DC-3, the C-130 and the B-52 will remain for a long time. The A-10 ought to remain in service indefinitely and deserves a place among the World's most renowned and respected airplanes.

  • @DJ63phx
    @DJ63phx 2 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    My dad fought in Korea and he said the greatest thing back then is when he heard the corsairs come in Because they can hang around for a couple hours And I think that's what the A10 is like nowadays

  • @ZaraPoeta
    @ZaraPoeta ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Dudes, whoever say that a ugly plane must think again. Personally I think (even on 2 days standards) it's the coolest looking plane out there! From an engineering perspective it really "thinking out of the box".... Congrats to those engineers... nice design!

    • @yankees29
      @yankees29 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Fairchild. I think it was built here on Long Island. Sucks the plant closed down.

    • @ZaraPoeta
      @ZaraPoeta ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@yankees29 that's really sad news the plant closed down, that plane remindes me of Dire Straits aka Mark Knofler said about 1 of his many guitars. it's that silver 1 looking like a banjoe on the cover of... "Brother in Arms" He said it's such a beautiful vulgar little guitar. I know some say it's an ugly plane, but for me... It just works, out of the box thinking. Just love that plane and admire those who fly them... simply put... 1 of a kind!

    • @yankees29
      @yankees29 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@ZaraPoeta my neighbor when I was growing up in the 70’s/80’s worked there. It was shut down and I believe the whole place caught fire in the early 2000’s. They cleared it out and put a movie theater and a Home Depot there.

    • @yankees29
      @yankees29 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ZaraPoeta I love the Dire Straits. My uncle had “Brothers in Arms” on vinyl when i was a kid. I used to play it non stop. Mark is one of my all time favorite guitar players.

  • @ianmamoo6834
    @ianmamoo6834 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    I love the admiration and respect between them grunts and pilots. So thick you can almost grab it from the screen. Thank you for sharing this.

    • @Dronescapes
      @Dronescapes  ปีที่แล้ว

      Our pleasure!

    • @thomasgirty6397
      @thomasgirty6397 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

      NOT pilot's. TROOP'S. BROTHER'S.

  • @larrywelchko6136
    @larrywelchko6136 2 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    As a former 11B1P in the 82 Airborne we always considered the A-10 drivers as our guardian angels

    • @chriswhite8852
      @chriswhite8852 ปีที่แล้ว

      All that St Michael business goes out the window when the Hog gets called down.
      All the Way!

  • @wendellbell6164
    @wendellbell6164 2 ปีที่แล้ว +87

    My dad was a forward observer in the korean war with a big radio on his back and he felt the same way about the P51 pilots . He loved to here them coming in hard and fast for that era of time. I can only emagin what he would have gave for an A 10.

    • @olliefoxx7165
      @olliefoxx7165 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Wow! Can you imagine the sound of P51's coming in low and fast to save the day! Incredible

    • @wendellbell6164
      @wendellbell6164 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@olliefoxx7165 he said some of the P51 pilots would get those planes right down on the deck and put those goose eggs right in the enemy tunnels. The tunels were large enough to drive trucks in. He would give the pilots a bad time if they wouldn't get those planes down lower. They hit one enemy amo dump that went up like the 4Th of July. The enamy would call for a peace talk while restocking there amo dump. 1953 was rough for us in that war.

    • @williamescolantejr5871
      @williamescolantejr5871 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@wendellbell6164 my father was there from june 50 till almost end of 51.got there as a corperal an by feb was a field comm major no shit.didnt hold it long nuff to become permenant so i told him he set 1 record going up,an another back down lol

    • @heirofgrievances3243
      @heirofgrievances3243 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Awesome. I'd always have my FO ride in the loader's hatch of the tank. They knew their stuff. Seeing the A10's show up was always worth it.

    • @scottloftin1730
      @scottloftin1730 ปีที่แล้ว

      Your father is a bad ass.
      Having that giant radio on his back made him a giant target.
      Salute to him for having the balls to do that man size job!

  • @michaelreed9805
    @michaelreed9805 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Words can't express the appreciation I have for my brothers that drive the beast....an aircraft is only as good as its driver. These guys are the best. Salute!

  • @ericwilson178
    @ericwilson178 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I saw my first A-10 at Hohenfels in 1978. I was a tank driver in the US 2nd Cavalry.
    I had a rather eye-opening experience with another one a couple of years later....
    I was sitting in the tank commander's hatch sipping my coffee in the treeline on top of a ridge at Ft. Campbell. It was a beautiful morning. Suddenly an A-10 came over the treeline on the next ridge, with me already in his sights. The coffee went flying and I made a feeble attempt with the Ma Deuce, but it was futile because he was already on top of me. He made a second pass and I was pissed off about my coffee, so I was shaking my fist at him. He was so close I could see him laughing.
    Sure glad they are on our side.

  • @aaronlopez3585
    @aaronlopez3585 2 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    One of the best A-10 documentaries, I've seen in a while. Thanks.

  • @bionicsjw
    @bionicsjw 2 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    A close friend and high school classmate flew the hog out of pilot training. After his active duty commitment was up he went to work for a major airline and the flew with the AZ Nat. Guard as an F-16 Instructor Pilot.

    • @bionicsjw
      @bionicsjw 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      I had a chance to work with the lead pilot on the record setting mission. He was a reservist and an Airline First Officer. He talked all about the mission and a SAR mission that happened that day.

  • @ZebraFacts
    @ZebraFacts ปีที่แล้ว +5

    The A-10 has to be the coolest, sci-fi-looking airframe there is in any military force. I would say that the attack helicopters are closely behind the A-10 in that regard, but they can't get there as fast, which may be minutes away from death for our troops on the ground. That said. Now that they are in the transition of closing out the A-10 program. Who or what can possibly replace them? I just don't understand closing out that airframe.

  • @carolecarr5210
    @carolecarr5210 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I am an amateur lover of planes of our militaries, etc.. The Warthog has been my favorite for a long time, & I hope we keep it flying some more. Awesome A10 pilots are phenomenal!!

    • @markwilson1096
      @markwilson1096 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I had heard its service had been extended “indefinitely”

  • @AerialAg
    @AerialAg 2 ปีที่แล้ว +76

    Personally I never thought it was ugly. This was the first plastic model I built as a kid and have loved it ever since. The A10 is one of the greatest aircrafts ever made IMO.

    • @toddmaek5436
      @toddmaek5436 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Word, I even had the transformer of it it was named Powerglide

    • @grizzlynad
      @grizzlynad 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      wasn't my 1st built, but certainly one of my favourites ;)

    • @MjC7192
      @MjC7192 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      the only aircraft built around a gun

    • @anydaynow01
      @anydaynow01 ปีที่แล้ว

      It was the first airplane model I built to include battle damage, after reading a few Fine Scale Modeler articles about it. Used some tin foil and square tooth picks to depict the damage to the fuselage and wing. That model was lost a few moves ago but I would really like to do another now that I know what I'm doing.

  • @sseltrek1a2b
    @sseltrek1a2b 2 ปีที่แล้ว +37

    what an amazing plane....clearly, the ground troops deeply appreciate these pilots...

  • @stabbb1299
    @stabbb1299 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    How they could ever think of replacing that aircraft with the F-35 is beyond me! It is by far THE best ground support airframe ever created!!

  • @Siercke1977
    @Siercke1977 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Great production! When A10's came in to help in Iraq it was definitely a sense of "We're ok and Freedom"

  • @sillieww
    @sillieww 2 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Heroes don't wear capes, they fly A-10's. Thank you.

  • @dronepilot260rc
    @dronepilot260rc 2 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Nice we have several of these A-10's here in Fort Wayne. They perform maneuvers daily and are amazing to see. The Black Snakes 🐍

  • @MrBrewsk
    @MrBrewsk ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Don't care what anyone says it's the most beautiful plane there is. I'm able to type this now because of an A-10. Awesome video.

  • @bierbrauer11
    @bierbrauer11 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Thanks for the video - I watched it to learn more about what my father did as an Air Force pilot, flying A-10’s for many years. I recall him being in the base papers a few times for search and recovery missions in Iraq.

    • @jasonmitchell6773
      @jasonmitchell6773 4 หลายเดือนก่อน

      My ex Brother in Law was an A-10 pilot. Arguably the coolest dude I ever knew.

  • @michaelreed9805
    @michaelreed9805 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    The unspoken bond between two bold and brave fighters that have never met is something that can't be explained....SALUTE to those that do

  • @michaelmahar3947
    @michaelmahar3947 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    During Desert Storm I was part of the crew that laid the ashpalt building the loading area for the A-10's. We doubled the number of sorties that went out in the day. When we were waiting on asphalt we would watch them come and go in groups of four. We would always have a deap feeling of concern when one of them was missing on their return. Only to later fine the last one coming in. A big sigh of relief by everyone on the ground when we would see the last one coming. There were even times when our crew would go to the fight line and help the crew load the A-10. I never thought of the guys on the ground that they were protecting. I just knew the A-10 as the tank killer. My prayers go out to all that still serve and those who never made it home.

  • @tedsmith3061
    @tedsmith3061 ปีที่แล้ว +57

    There's nothing in the universe like you guys. So proud of you. Thank you for all you do.

  • @andybaumgart9070
    @andybaumgart9070 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I used to see A-10 Warthogs, also known as The tank killers, flying over my post, where I was stationed in Germany, in the '80's! LOVED watching them fly overhead!

  • @TrulyUnfortunate
    @TrulyUnfortunate 2 ปีที่แล้ว +33

    Definitely my favorite plane of all time!
    Being able to help out ground troops up close and personal would be an absolute rush!

  • @TimNelson
    @TimNelson 2 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    Easily one of the most BEAUTIFUL aircraft ever devised. Period.

  • @matthewd.4549
    @matthewd.4549 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This has been my favorite aircraft ever thank God that we had this on our side.. Bless all that this has helped!!

  • @hashmagandy2012
    @hashmagandy2012 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A10 wonders aside, it’s quite humbling to hear such decent and brave young American men share their battlefield experiences.

  • @Whitesp44
    @Whitesp44 2 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    Fantastic documentary. Great footage in the air and ground. Those guys said it all, the A-10 was a life saver. Never forget that sound.

  • @Grasshoppa65
    @Grasshoppa65 2 ปีที่แล้ว +63

    What a remarkable aircraft. It still baffles me why my government (Australia) didn't buy a couple of hundred of the A10.
    To all you American warriors, both in the air and on the ground, I salute you and I am happy my country is a close ally of yours.

    • @shannonspear8751
      @shannonspear8751 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Because the Australian govt is infested by Deep state scum

    • @elqord.1118
      @elqord.1118 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Stop kissing ass

    • @wastelandwarrior3297
      @wastelandwarrior3297 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You guys have some amazing troops to be proud of as well. When I was "in" I met a few who were like brothers from another mother too me !

    • @colinmackenzie6277
      @colinmackenzie6277 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Oh he'll yeah, Aussie BBQ BOYs and their own A10s?!?!??! A whole new level of sh#+ right there!!! BADASS!!!!

    • @brianwallace3409
      @brianwallace3409 ปีที่แล้ว

      Keep charging
      BEST
      Keep ccp off your ass
      USMC

  • @Malibudave777
    @Malibudave777 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What was really amazing to me was seeing my Dad who flew B-25 s in WW2 with 8 50 cals and a 75mm cannon out the nose hitting ground targets and him seeing this A-10 next to it at a Airshow in 1985 both planes same size he just started balling and said that this is what we needed back in 1943-45. He talked for 2 hrs with that pilot and both came to tears as both had same experiences in both planes!! That B-25 bomber turned into a ground support fighter!! When that 75 mm cannon went off he said it knocked 25 mph out of the plane!! 350 mph !! Dad was a Lt Col Army Air Corp!!

  • @troysgarage
    @troysgarage 2 ปีที่แล้ว +34

    My little bro captains a KC-135 and refuels a lot of these guys. Brought tears to my eyes knowing the danger ground troops put themselves in to get the job done. Supported by heros with wings helping to pave the way to freedom! 'MERICA!!! 🙌🇺🇸🇺🇸🙌

    • @scottloftin1730
      @scottloftin1730 ปีที่แล้ว

      Aim High!

    • @hayleyandkilo
      @hayleyandkilo ปีที่แล้ว

      pave the way to freedom,......
      and a lot of money in dick cheneys pocket.
      god bless pratt whi....im sorry, america....

  • @bobpickett3788
    @bobpickett3788 2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    The A-10 is
    magic, it can & does turn worried, pinned down, under fire infantry into a party cheering & all! Love the bird @ it’s pilots!

  • @Zaxby722
    @Zaxby722 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Anyone who ever spent a sing distance outside any green zone from Iraq to Afghanistan will understand why this aircraft is one of the best CAS aircraft FMs we have.

  • @donwilber1628
    @donwilber1628 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    USAF vet '77-81 here. One of the earliest videos we watched was of the new A10 on a range. Seeing it shoot up targets was a nice morale boost. I was stationed in Germany at the end of my enlistment and got to see one up close with the gun pulled out of the frame...HOLY COW that thing was huge!

  • @karenm502
    @karenm502 ปีที่แล้ว +43

    The courage it takes to do what is needed to keep each other safe is awesome! You're all heroes and I can't say how proud I am to be an American!