10 Reasons Why The A-10 Is A Battlefield Legend

1. Linkless Ammunition Feed

The GAU-8/A Avenger cannon uses a linkless, double-ended ammunition feed system to prevent jamming and return spent casings to the drum. This design avoids in-flight damage from expended shells.

2. Redundant Hydraulic Systems

The A-10’s two hydraulic systems, powered by engine-driven pumps, ensure control redundancy. If one fails, critical flight controls like the ailerons, elevators, and rudder remain operational.

3. Backup Flight Control

When hydraulics fail, the Manual Reversion Flight Control System steps in. This fly-by-wire backup gives pilots enough control to reach safety, though prolonged use isn’t ideal.

4. Belly-Landing Ready

The partially exposed landing gear allows for emergency belly landings, a thoughtful feature to keep the A-10 operational even in extreme conditions.

5. Self-Sealing Fuel Tanks

Four separate fuel tanks, lined with polyurethane foam, prevent leaks and fires. Positioned near the aircraft’s center, they add safety without compromising balance.

6. Titanium Tub

The pilot’s “bathtub,” a 1,200 lb. titanium armor enclosure, shields against 23mm cannon fire and fragments from larger shells, ensuring safety in hostile airspace.

7. Chaff and Flares

Flying close to enemy positions makes the A-10 a missile target. It deploys radar-reflective chaff to confuse SAMs and flares to counter heat-seeking threats.

8. Large Vertical Stabilizers

To counter the recoil from the Avenger cannon, the A-10’s oversized stabilizers keep the aircraft steady during firing bursts.

9. Easy Repairs

Cost-effective and designed with interchangeable parts, the A-10 is built for quick repairs and mass production, a critical advantage during prolonged campaigns.

10. Auxiliary Power Units (APUs)

Two APUs between the engines enable the A-10 to start its main engines, generate power, and run hydraulics independently, making it highly self-reliant.