Post 46; especially this part: “The A-10 is called the Thunderbolt II, as in the grand-baby of the old WWII P-47 combined with the old A-1 Skyraider.”
Notwithstanding the fact ALL aviation is based on what went before, the A-10’s design was based on P-47 experiences and the A-1. Germans had nothing to do with it.
The Hog was, and is, a purpose-built jet based on the P-47 and A-1, upgraded to what we envisioned we would face when confronting the Soviets, and we knew we needed a jet that was survivable, hence triple redundant flight control system, high and wide engines, interchangeable flaps and slats, other easily replaced and interchangeable parts, titanium bathtub, HUGE gun.
Rudel’s book was required reading for everyone on its design team, and the only argument was whether he directly consulted in the program or not.
The A-10 is not a direct descendant or a cross breed. Some say it was designed around its cannon, but a better analysis is that it is a plane designed for CAS *pilots*, what they want, not what the engineers wanted.
The Germans started the war with CAS, the British had none, and the Americans were obsessed with strategic bombing. “USAAF doctrinal priorities for tactical aviation were, in order, air superiority, isolation of the battlefield via supply interdiction, and thirdly, close air support.”
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Close_air_support#RAF_and_USAAF
The OV10s would have been perfect for today’s missions. Slow, had a punch and easy to maintain. Our brass in its infinite wisdom sold off the fleet.
The Norks are still a threat with loads of armor so we should keep the Hogs around until they fold.