The iconic A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft can now use APKWS II missiles and GBU-39/B small-diameter guided bombs

By: Maksim Panasovskiy | 10.11.2023, 14:41

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

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

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

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