A-10 was the first USAF aircraft designed specifically for “Close Air Support ” (CAS) . It can be described as the outcome of the experience gained in the Vietnam War and the threats of the Soviet Union armor forces during the Cold War era. The first A-10A “Thunderbolt II” was delivered October 1975 and deployment in March 1976.

A-10's pilot is protected by titanium armor around his seat and the canopy isa large bubble canopy which provides all-round vision. The aircraft is designed with dual engines and the self-sealing fuel cells are protected by internal and external foam . Extra titanium is used to protect some flight control system parts of the aircraft. All these insure the plane and pilot's safety from enemy fires.

The Aircraft

In 1972 the standard tail code for the 81st TFW became WR. On August 24th the first 3 aircraft arrived for maintenance training and on December 8, 1978 the first A-10 arrived for active service. Operations continued at Bentwaters until March 23, 1993 when the last 2 A-10’s departed for their new home at Spangdahlem AB, Germany. The 81st TFW was deactivated and on July 1, 1993 Bentwaters was formally closed. Up until that date there had been an American presence for 42 years.