The iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft can now use APKWS II missiles and GBU-39/B small-diameter guided bombs
The US Air Force has released photos of the A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft. The images reveal the new armament of the legendary aircraft.
Here's What We Know
The US Department of Defence sent A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft to the US Central Command area of responsibility in the middle of last month. This was in response to an attack on Israel by Hamas terrorists.
![The iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft can now use APKWS II missiles and GBU-39/B small-diameter guided bombs The iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft can now use APKWS II missiles and GBU-39/B small-diameter guided bombs](/media/uploads/a10-loadout-middle-east.jpg)
According to published photos, the A-10 Thunderbolt IIs received new armament. It is noteworthy that this happened almost just before the retirement of the legendary aircraft due to low effectiveness in modern conflicts.
![The iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft can now use APKWS II missiles and GBU-39/B small-diameter guided bombs-2 The iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft can now use APKWS II missiles and GBU-39/B small-diameter guided bombs-2](/media/uploads/left-wing-ordnance-a-10-middle-east.jpg)
Judging by the photos, the A-10 Thunderbolt II can now use missiles of 70 mm calibre. In particular, we are talking about projectiles with APKWS II kit and laser guidance to improve accuracy. In addition, small-diameter GBU-39/B guided bombs can be seen under the wing. They have a weight of 110kg and are GPS guided. The launch range is 70 kilometres.
![The iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft can now use APKWS II missiles and GBU-39/B small-diameter guided bombs-3 The iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft can now use APKWS II missiles and GBU-39/B small-diameter guided bombs-3](/media/uploads/right-wing-ordnance-a-10-middle-east.jpg)
Under the right wing of the aircraft we can see the LITENING laser weapon aiming and guidance module. It is used for guidance of APKWS II missiles.
Source: The War Zone