Intro
Discover the ultimate showdown between the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt. Learn about the 5 key differences between these two iconic aircraft, including design, firepower, and capabilities. Explore the unique features of each plane and determine which one reigns supreme in this in-depth comparison of the A-10s history, specs, and operational prowess.
The A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt are two aircraft that are often confused with each other due to their similarities in design and purpose. However, despite their similarities, they have distinct differences that set them apart. In this article, we will explore the 5 key differences between the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt.
The A-10 Warthog, also known as the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II, is a single-seat, twin-engine jet aircraft designed specifically for close air support and ground attack missions. On the other hand, the A-10 Thunderbolt is a nickname given to the P-47 Thunderbolt, a World War II-era fighter aircraft.
Key Differences
1. Design and Purpose
The most obvious difference between the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt is their design and purpose. The A-10 Warthog was designed specifically for close air support and ground attack missions, with a focus on durability and maneuverability. It features a unique design, with a rugged and reinforced airframe, and is equipped with a 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger cannon and a variety of rockets and missiles.
In contrast, the A-10 Thunderbolt (P-47) was designed as a high-altitude fighter aircraft, with a focus on speed and agility. It was used extensively during World War II and the Korean War, and was known for its impressive speed and climb rate.
2. Engine Power
Another key difference between the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt is their engine power. The A-10 Warthog is powered by two General Electric TF34-GE-100A turbofans, each producing 9,065 pounds of thrust. This gives the A-10 Warthog a maximum speed of around 450 knots (833 km/h).
In contrast, the A-10 Thunderbolt (P-47) was powered by a single Pratt & Whitney R-2800 radial engine, producing 2,600 horsepower. This gave the P-47 a maximum speed of around 430 mph (692 km/h).
Engine Comparison
| Aircraft | Engine | Thrust/Horsepower | Maximum Speed |
|---|---|---|---|
| A-10 Warthog | General Electric TF34-GE-100A | 9,065 pounds x 2 | 450 knots (833 km/h) |
| A-10 Thunderbolt (P-47) | Pratt & Whitney R-2800 | 2,600 horsepower | 430 mph (692 km/h) |
3. Armament
The A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt also differ significantly in terms of their armament. The A-10 Warthog is equipped with a 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger cannon, which is specifically designed for anti-tank and anti-personnel use. It also carries a variety of rockets and missiles, including the AGM-65 Maverick and the AGM-114 Hellfire.
In contrast, the A-10 Thunderbolt (P-47) was equipped with eight.50-inch M2 Browning machine guns, which were used for air-to-air combat and ground attack missions.
4. Service History
The A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt have distinct service histories. The A-10 Warthog entered service with the US Air Force in 1976, and has since been used in a variety of conflicts, including the Gulf War and the War in Afghanistan.
In contrast, the A-10 Thunderbolt (P-47) entered service with the US Army Air Forces in 1942, and was used extensively during World War II and the Korean War.
Service History Comparison
| Aircraft | Service Entry | Conflicts |
|---|---|---|
| A-10 Warthog | 1976 | Gulf War, War in Afghanistan |
| A-10 Thunderbolt (P-47) | 1942 | World War II, Korean War |
5. Production Numbers
Finally, the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt differ significantly in terms of production numbers. A total of 715 A-10 Warthogs were produced between 1972 and 1984.
In contrast, a total of 15,636 P-47 Thunderbolts were produced between 1941 and 1945.
Production Numbers Comparison
| Aircraft | Production Numbers |
|---|---|
| A-10 Warthog | 715 |
| A-10 Thunderbolt (P-47) | 15,636 |
In conclusion, while the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt share some similarities, they are distinct aircraft with different designs, purposes, and service histories. The A-10 Warthog is a modern close air support and ground attack aircraft, while the A-10 Thunderbolt is a vintage fighter aircraft from World War II.
We hope this article has provided you with a deeper understanding of the differences between the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to share them below.
A10 Warthog and P47 Thunderbolt Image Gallery
What is the main difference between the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt?
+The main difference between the A-10 Warthog and A-10 Thunderbolt is their design and purpose. The A-10 Warthog is a modern close air support and ground attack aircraft, while the A-10 Thunderbolt is a vintage fighter aircraft from World War II.
What is the A-10 Warthog's armament?
+The A-10 Warthog is equipped with a 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger cannon, as well as a variety of rockets and missiles.
What is the P-47 Thunderbolt's service history?
+The P-47 Thunderbolt entered service with the US Army Air Forces in 1942, and was used extensively during World War II and the Korean War.