This title explores the development and use of the A-10 Thunderbolt II, the first US Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. Readers will follow the history of the aircraft, and learn its military and performance specifications, as well as its features and advantages in the field. Readers will learn about its weapon systems including general purpose bombs, cluster bomb units, laser guided bombs, joint direct attack munitions, missiles, rockets, illumination flares, and cannons. Features such as Night Vision Imaging Systems, titanium armor, self-sealing fuel cells, and hydraulic flight-control systems are detailed. The Warthog’s two non-after burning turbofan engines are also covered, as are the achievements and future of this important aircraft. A&D Xtreme is an imprint of ABDO Publishing Company.