A-10 Thunderbolt II – Fojtík Jakub (2020)

The A-10 attack aircraft is literally one of the modern legends of American aviation design. Just like the Russian Su-25, the A-10 is an example of purposeful design aimed at meeting simple requirements – high maneuverability at low speeds allowing for low-altitude flights, extreme firepower for the destruction of a wide range of targets, resistance to enemy fire, and simplicity in production and maintenance. The entire aircraft was literally built around the 30mm GAU-8/A rotary cannon, the most powerful gun ever used on an aircraft. Its enormous weapon payload combined with long endurance has resulted in a truly unique type that throughout its life has excelled not only in resistance to enemy fire but also to various political, lobbying, and other command pressures. Even before the prototype's first flight, there was talk of the unnecessary nature of such a single-purpose machine, and even winning against the competing YA-9 did not lead directly to mass production. Despite all the plans and subsequent reductions, the A-10 entered service and has survived multiple attempts at retirement. Its current operational outlook extends beyond 2030, and the recently surviving fleet has received new wings...