A-10C Thunderbolt II Operations

Images depicting A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft in the sky, showcasing training operations with a focus on maneuverability and combat readiness.

An Air Force pilots guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 11, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 11, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

An F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 158th Fighter Wing arrives at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vermont, Aug. 3, 2022. This week, F-35A Lightning II aircraft, equipment, and personnel from the 158th Fighter Wing return home from a three month overseas deployment at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany.

First Lieutenant kite Hans Könings from the Twentse 315 Squadron gives in its Northrop NF-5A Freedom-Fighter, executed in demo colors, a beautiful show during the open day at the Twenthe airbase.

An Air Force pilots guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionally

A U.S. Air Force AC-130J Ghostrider gunship from the 1st Special Operations Wing conducts close air support training during exercise Balikatan 22 at Colonel Ernesto Rabina Air Base, Philippines, April 6, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan 22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation.

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 12, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

A U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 91st Expeditionary Air Refueling Squadron, prepares to provide fuel to an HC-130J Combat King II assigned to the 26th Expeditionary Rescue Squadron within the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, Jan. 9, 2023. The Stratotanker extends the range of the HC-130J aircraft, enabling the aircraft to fly into austere areas during combat search and rescue operations.

U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 121 take off from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, in support of exercise Keen Sword 2023, Nov. 15, 2022. Keen Sword is a biennial exercise designed to enhance Japan-U.S. readiness, interoperability, and bilateral relations while demonstrating U.S. resolve to support the security interests of allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

The U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team from Joint Base Langley-Eustis performs aerial maneuvers over the flightline at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., Nov. 17, 2022. The F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team performed aerial maneuvers showcasing the elite combat readiness of the 5th generation aircraft.

A U.S. Air Force MC-130J Commando assigned to the 1st Special Operations Squadron, 353rd Special Operations Wing, conducts an aerial delivery during Exercise Shinka 22.1 at the Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, June 13, 2022. Shinka exemplifies a shared commitment to realistic training that produces lethal, ready, and adaptable forces capable of decentralized operations across a wide range of missions.

U.S. Marines with 3d Battalion, 3d Marines coordinate close air support utilizing inert munitions with an F-35B Lightning II aircraft assigned to Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 121 during Exercise Fuji Viper 22.5 at Combined Arms Training Center, Camp Fuji, Japan, Sept. 16, 2022. Exercise Fuji Viper exemplifies a commitment to realistic training that produces lethal, ready, and adaptable forces capable of decentralized operations across a wide range of missions. 3/3 is forward deployed in the Indo-Pacific under 4th Marines, 3d Marine Division as part of the Unit Deployment Program.

A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper (left) assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469 and a UH-1Y Venom assigned to Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 469, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, conduct close air support drills during Resolute Dragon 22 on Shikaribetsu Maneuver Area, Hokkaido, Japan, Oct. 5, 2022. Resolute Dragon 22 is an annual bilateral exercise designed to strengthen the defensive capabilities of the U.S.-Japan Alliance by exercising integrated command and control, targeting, combined arms, and maneuver across multiple domains.

A US Marine Corps (USMC) KC-130 Hercules multi-role cargo aircraft assigned to VMGR-152 Refuels Wings Long-Range Capabilities, Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Futenma, completes its mission with an air drop on the island of Ie Shima, Okinawa. Base: Ie Shima State: Okinawa Country: Japan (JPN)

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 11, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

A B-52 Stratofortress aircraft, assigned to the 23rd Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, flies over RAF Fairford, England, Aug. 18, 2022. Strategic bombers contribute to stability in the European theater, they provide a critical role in strategic deterrence. If called upon, U.S. bombers offer a rapid response capability.

000504-A-9846J-006. Base: Fort Mccoy State: Wisconsin (WI) Country: United States Of America (USA)

The Memorial Squadron flight of 18 various aircraft perform a fly-by at Travis Air Force Base, California, May 29, 2022. The 18-ship flyover took place in honor of Memorial Day to respect and remember our fallen service members. The aircraft are piloted by prior military and general aviation pilots.

A Philippine Air Force AW-109 helicopter from the 15th Strike Wing launches a 2.75 inch rocket at a target on the ground during exercise Balikatan 22 at Colonel Ernesto Rabina Air Base, Philippines, April 6, 2022. Balikatan is an annual exercise between the Armed Forces of the Philippines and U.S. military designed to strengthen bilateral interoperability, capabilities, trust, and cooperation built over decades of shared experiences. Balikatan 22 is the 37th iteration of the exercise and coincides with the 75th anniversary of U.S.-Philippine security cooperation.

A Parade of Heavies with a U.S. Air Force KC-10 Extender, left, C-17 Globemaster III, center, and C-5M Super Galaxy, all from the 60th Air Mobility Wing, fly in formation during the California Capital Airshow at Mather Airport in Sacramento, California, Oct. 1, 2022. Airmen representing various units from Travis Air Force Base participated in the event to educate, inspire and share the mission of Air Mobility Command and displayed a static KC-10 Extender, C-5M Super Galaxy and C-17 Globemaster III.

A 926th Tactical Fighter Group A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft drops a 500-lb. bomb at Vieques Range during exercise Patriot Pearl. Subject Operation/Series: PATRIOT PEARL State: Puerto Rico (PR) Country: United States Of America (USA)

An Air Force pilot guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 12, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

Philippine Air Force T-28 Trojan aircraft provide close air support for amphibious assault troops, during a reenactment of General MacArthur's landing at Red Beach on October 20, 1944. Base: Leyte Island Country: Philippines (PHL)

U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagles take off from Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, en route to Łask Air Base, Poland, to support NATO Air Shielding efforts, Aug. 5, 2022. Air Shielding is a purely defensive mission designed to shield and protect allied territory and populations and a key component of NATOs Deterrence and Defense Posture.

In 1991, the Leeuwarden airbase took the "demo" from Twente, two F-16As, the J-226 and the J-231 from 322 and 323 Squadron, were provided with an attractive color scheme. In the tail both devices felt it Leegarden airbase emblem, the "Fryske Drak", with a motto "for friend and enemy ready". On 22 May 1991 the devices were shown to the press. The demo flyer was Kapitein Reindert Zwaart.

A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from the 124th Fighter Wing perform live fire exercises at the Grayling Air Gunnery Range in northern Michigan, June 8, 2022. The GAGR provides over 147,000 acres of joint tactical air and ground training space for various military and paramilitary forces.

PHILIPPINE SEA (May 5, 2022) Aircraft, assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 9, fly over the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72). Abraham Lincoln Strike Group is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations to enhance interoperability through alliances and partnerships while serving as a ready-response force in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

U.S. Army and partner nation paratroopers complete airborne operations during Tradewinds 22, on May 8, in Belize. Tradewinds is a Caribbean-focused exercise designed to expand the regions capability to mitigate, plan for, and respond to crises; strengthen partnerships; increase regional training capacity and interoperability; develop new and refine existing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) during the SOP Development Conference; determine SOPs to be exercised; determine regional process for SOP validation; enhance ability to defend Exclusive Economic Zones; increase U.S./ally/partner readiness; promote human rights and adherence to shared international norms and values; fully integrate women into the force; and increase maritime domain awareness to deter IUU fishing activities.

An A-10 Thunderbolt II, flown by Airmen with the Maryland National Guard, trains at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., Aug. 3, 2022. The installation offers wide variety of ranges, including air-to-ground, artillery, machine gun and team and platoon live-fire ranges, making it one of the busiest National Guard training sites in the country.

A U.S. Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper with Marine Light Attack Helicopter Squadron 267, Marine Aircraft Group 39 provides simulated close air support during Jungle Warfare Exercise 23 in the Central Training Area on Okinawa, Japan, Feb. 15, 2023. JWX 23 is a large-scale field training exercise focused on leveraging the integrated capabilities of joint and allied partners to strengthen all-domain awareness, maneuver, and fires across a distributed maritime environment.

A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor assigned to the 199th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron and a C-17 Globemaster III fly over Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, June 17, 2022. The 199th EFS traveled to Iwakuni for an Agile Combat Employment training event, during which the unit is assigned to the 354th Air Expeditionary Wing and integrated with the 356th EFS to refine fifth generation integration tactics, techniques and procedures.

An E-8C Joint STARS operated by an aircrew from the 116th Airborne Command and Control Squadron (ACCS), 461st Air Control Wing, flies overhead after returning from a mission at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, Sept. 8, 2022. The 16th ACCS flew its final local sortie today after 27 years of operational history. The 16th ACCS will be officially inactivated in February 2023.

U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to the Brigade Support Battalion, 173rd Airborne Brigade, release heavy drop packages with a U.S. Air Force 86th Air Wing C-130 Hercules aircraftonto Frida Drop Zone at Pordenone, Italy on May 17, 2022.The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army's Contingency Response Force in Europe, providing rapidly deployable forces to the United States European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Forward deployed across Italy and Germany, the brigade routinely trains alongside NATO allies and partners to build partnerships and strengthen the alliance.

A U.S. Air Force F-15E Strike Eagle assigned to the 494th Fighter Squadron flies over Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, May 26, 2022. Routine training missions give the opportunity for the Liberty Wings aircrews to gain the experience they need to support United States Air Forces in Europe objectives.

A U.S. Air Force AC-130U gunship from the 4th Special Operations Squadron takes off Feb. 3, 2011, for a local training mission at Hurlburt Field, Fla. The AC-130U "Spooky" gunship is the primary weapon of Air Force Special Operations Command. Its primary missions are close air support, air interdiction and armed reconnaissance. The U model is an upgraded version of the H and is equipped with side firing, trainable 25 mm, 40 mm, and 105 mm guns.

U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 173rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team- Airborne (173rd IBCT ABN) conduct an equipment drop during Exercise Saber Junction 22 at Hohenfels Training Area, Joint Multinational Readiness Center (JMRC) in Hohenfels, Germany, Sept. 2022. Saber Junction 22 is a combat training rotation designed to assess the readiness of the 173rd IBCT (ABN) in executing operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with participating allied and partner nations.

040301-M-3980Y-011. Subject Operation/Series: BALIKATAN 2004 Base: Clark Field State: Luzon Country: Philippines

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John MacRae, the 134th Fighter Squadron Commander at the 158th Fighter Wing, prepares to land an F-35A Lighting II at the Vermont Air National Guard Base, South Burlington, Vermont, Oct. 16, 2022. During this sortie, MaCrae reached over 1,000 hours piloting F-35's, an incredible milestone which is a testament to his experience and expertise piloting the Air Forces newest 5th generation fighter aircraft.

Italian Army paratroopers assigned to 4th Alpini Regiment, Folgore Brigade and U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, conduct an airborne operation from a Italian Air Force, 46th Air Brigade, C-27J Spartan onto Alpe di Siusi in Bolzano, Italy, Feb. 16, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility.

220810-N-WU964-1025 PHILIPPINE SEA (Aug. 10, 2022) Cmdr. David Wiltshire, commanding officer of the Tigertails of Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 125, left, conducts a change of command ceremony with Cmdr. Edmund Poynton over the flight deck of the U.S. Navys only forward-deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) in an E-2D Hawkeye in the Philippine Sea, Aug. 10. During the change of command ceremony Wiltshire transferred command of VAW 125 to Poynton. Ronald Reagan, the flagship of Carrier Strike Group 5, provides a combat-ready force that protects and defends the United States, and supports alliances, partnerships and collective maritime interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II flying against sky

Airborne troops jump from a HC-130H Hercules aircraft as part of a demonstration during an air show. Base: Eglin Air Force Base State: Florida (FL) Country: United States Of America (USA)

U.S. Air Force 2nd Bomb Wing B-52 Stratofortress refuel with U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotankers, assigned to the 909th Air Refueling Squadron, over the Pacific Ocean, Sept. 30, 2022. Pacific Air Forces utilize various aircraft to maintain a flexible theater posture to enhance its ability to provide the Department of Defense options to support our allies and partners in a free and open Indo-Pacific.

A ground to air right side view of a German Air Force Tornado aircraft from the 51st Fighter Squadron, Vincenza AB, Italy, in flight over the runway at Aviano, AB, Italy in support of Operation DECISIVE ENDEAVOR. An USAF E-3C (Sentry) Airborne Warning And Control System (AWACS) aircraft is taxing in the background. Subject Operation/Series: DECISIVE ENDEAVOR Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA)

Members assigned to joint special operations forces jump out of a C-130J Hercules aircraft assigned to the 815th Airlift Squadron, Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, over MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, Nov. 3, 2022. Joint special operations forces members assigned to U.S. Special Operations Command, Special Operations Command Central and Joint Communications Support Element conducted an administrative non-tactical freefall operation over MacDill as part of a monthly training requirement.

Italian Army paratroopers assigned to 4th Alpini Regiment, Folgore Brigade and U.S. Army Ranger assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 75 Ranger Regiment,conduct a airborne water operation from a Italian Air Force 46 Aerobrigata Pisa C-27 Spartan into Lake Garda at Pacengo, Lazise, Italy, May 19, 2022. The event highlighted combined NATO airborne operations between the brigade and its host nation allies.

Members from 56th Troop Command, Charlie Company with the Rhode Island National Guard conducts airborne training and follow-on tactics training at Camp Blanding Joint Training Center, Starke, Fla. Jan. 20, 2022. The training was completed in order to increase proficiency in tactical techniques.(U.S. Air National Guard photos by Senior Airman Brittni Capozzi)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Haden Fullam, A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team commander and pilot, flies over Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, July 14, 2022. Fullam flew a capability demonstration of the A-10 Thunderbolt II in front of cadets from the U.S. Air Force Academy as part of a routine practice sortie. During the performance, Fullam showcased different aerial maneuvers, including simulated weapons delivery, highlighting the combat capabilities of the A-10.

Cmdr. Andrew Imperatore, front, off-going commanding officer of the "Grey Wolves" of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 142, prepares to depart the formation of Cmdr. Andrew Thom, right, oncoming VAQ-142 commanding officer, and Commander, Carrier Air Wing 8 Capt. Daryl Trent during a VAQ-142 change of command ceremony, April 14, 2022. Thom, from Yorktown, Virginia, relieved Cmdr. Andrew Imperatore during the aerial change of command. USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 72) is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting carrier qualifications and strike group integration as part of the ships tailored basic phase prior to operational deployment.

Italian Army paratroopers assigned to 4th Alpini Regiment, Folgore Brigade and U.S. Army paratroopers assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade, conduct an airborne operation from a Italian Air Force, 46th Air Brigade, C-27J Spartan onto Alpe di Siusi in Bolzano, Italy, Feb. 16, 2023. The 173rd Airborne Brigade is the U.S. Army Contingency Response Force in Europe, capable of projecting ready forces anywhere in the U.S. European, Africa or Central Commands' areas of responsibility.

A C-130 Hercules from the 130th Airlift Wing, West Virginia Air National Guard, airdrops supplies during Agile Rage 22, at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center, Mich., June 10, 2022. Agile Rage is a new Air National Guard exercise designed to test a unit's ability to implement Agile Combat Employment and work in an austere combat environment.

An A-10 Thunderbolt IIs assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron (TES), Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, deploys flares on the Nevada Test and Training Range, Nevada, Dec 7, 2022. The 422nd TES is a geographically separated unit of the 53rd Test and Evaluation Group, Eglin AFB, Florida.

A palletized munitions system falls from the cargo hold of a 352d Special Operations Wing MC-130J Commando II during a live-fire demonstration for ATREUS 22-4 at Andøya Space Defense Range, Norway, Nov. 9, 2022. This is the first time Rapid Dragon, a precision munitions capability for medium-sized or larger cargo aircraft that allows U.S. and NATO forces a flexible rapid response option, has been employed in the U.S. European Command theater.

An Air Force pilots guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 3rd Aviation Regiment (Attack Battalion), 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, prepare to load two AH-64D Longbow helicopters onto a U.S. Air Force C-17 transport aircraft after unloading two AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopters, at Wiesbaden Army Airfield, Clay Kaserne, Germany, Sept. 1, 2023. The AH-64E Apache Guardian helicopter upgrade is part of the 12th CAB modernization efforts, ongoing training, and new equipment fielding.12th CAB is among other units assigned to V Corps, America's Forward Deployed Corps in Europe. They work alongside NATO Allies and regional security partners to provide combat-ready forces, execute joint and multinational training exercises, and retain command and control for all rotational and assigned units in the European Theater.

U.S. Air Force C-17s from 204th Airlift Squadron and 535th Airlift Squadron, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, performs an airdrop of humvees on Pohakuloa Training Grounds, Nov. 1, 2022. Realistic training exercises, like JPMRC 23-01, strengthen defense relationships, foster multinational interoperability, increase U.S. readiness, and reinforce the unified regional land power network that supports a Free and Open Indo-Pacific.

A Pioneer I remotely-piloted vehicle (RPV) shortly after being launched from the stern of the battleship USS IOWA (BB-61). The RPV, which carries a stabilized television camera and a laser designator, is being tested aboard the IOWA as a basic gunfire support system with over-the-horizon targeting and reconnaissance capabilities. The system may be operated out to a range of 110 miles from the battleship surface group and has an endurance of eight hours. Country: Atlantic Ocean (AOC)

Four U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotankers assigned to 203rd Air Refueling Squadron, 154th Wing, Hawaii Air National Guard, conduct a flyover during Operation Centennial Contact at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay, Marine Corps Base Hawaii, June 27, 2023. The flyover commemorated the 100th anniversary of the first successful aerial refueling. More than 150 aircraft including KC-135 Stratotankers, KC-10 Extenders and KC-46 Pegasuses, conducted commemorative flyovers in all 50 states.

A US AIR FORCE C-130 Hercules of the 86th Airlift Wing, Ramstein Air BAse, Germany, off-load the US Army paratroopers of the 1ST of the 508th Airborne, 5th Southern European Task Force (SETAF) out of Vicenza, Italy, it was carrying during Exercise VENETO RESCUE on June 6th, 2000. Subject Operation/Series: VENETO RESCUE Base: Aviano Air Base State: Pordenone Country: Italy (ITA)

A U.S. Air Force AT-6E Wolverine flies over Avon Park Air Force Range, Florida, May 11, 2022. The U.S. Air Force partnered with Colombia, Tunisia, Nigeria, and Thailand to co-develop tactics, techniques and procedures to combat violent extremist organizations while demonstrating the capabilities of the Airborne Extensible Relay Over-Horizon Network.

Condensation streaks from military jets during flight manoeuvres over Bavaria, Germany, Europe

A HMMWV and M119 105 mm howitzer assigned to the 173rd Airborne Brigade are airdropped out of a C-130 Hercules over the Joint Multinational Readiness Center during Saber Junction 22 in Hohenfels, Germany, Sep. 8, 2022. Saber Junction 22 is a multinational rotational exercise designed to assess the readiness of the 173rd Airborne Brigade to execute unified land operations in a joint, combined environment and to promote interoperability with more than 4,500 participants from the U.S. and allied and partner nations at the U.S. Armys Grafenwoehr and Hohenfels training areas.

An Air Force pilots guides an A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft over the airspace on South Post at Fort McCoy, Wis., on Oct. 4, 2022, as part of training operations at installation. Several A-10s completed taking off and landing at Young Air Assault Strip on South Post and flying routes over the installation. According to the Air Force fact sheet for the A-10C, the Thunderbolt II is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against light maritime attack aircraft and all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10C offers excellent maneuverability at low airspeeds and altitude while maintaining a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform. They can loiter near battle areas for extended periods of time, are capable of austere landings and operate under 1,000-foot ceilings (303.3 meters) with 1.5-mile (2.4 kilometers) visibility. Additionall

MC-130W Combat SpearPrimary function: Infiltration, exfiltration and re- supply of special operations forces; in-flight refueling of special operations vertical lift aircraft. Speed: 300 mph. Dimensions: Wingspan 132 ft. 7 in.; length 98 ft. 9 in.; height 38 ft. 6 in. Range: 1,208 miles unrefu- eled. Crew: Seven.

Blue Angels Soar in Precision: Pre-Season Formation Practice at Naval Air Field El Centro The elite US Navy Blue Angels hone precision in the California desert, practicing intricate formation flying at Naval Air Field El Centro for the upcoming air show season Copyright: xZoonar.com/WalterxGxArcexSrxGrindstonexMediaxGroup/WalterxArcexPhotographyx 21361637

A six-person aircrew from the 157th Air Refueling Wing, New Hampshire Air National Guard, performs a flyover in a KC-46 Pegasus at the Ilopango air show Feb. 17, 2024, in El Salvador. The 39th Army Band also performed at the show for thousands of attendees. Air National Guard

A German Air Force Airbus A400M completed a Airstrip Seizure exercise part of Swift Response 22 at Gaižiūnas Airfield, Lithuania, May 9, 2022. Exercise Swift Response 2022 is an annual multinational training exercise, which takes place in Eastern Europe, the Arctic High North, Baltics and Balkans from May 2-20. The purpose of the exercise is to present combat credible Army forces in Europe and Africa, and enhance readiness by building airborne interoperability with Allies and Partners and the integration of joint service partnership.

DN-SC-87-06600. Country: Pacific Ocean (POC)

A T-33 Shooting Star performs during Montanas Military Open House “Flight Over the Falls” at Montana Air National Guard Base, Great Falls, Montana, July 24, 2022. From 1948 to 1959, only 6,557 T-33 Shooting Stars were produced and the aircraft have been used in over 20 different nations.

A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II flies over Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, Sept. 28, 2022. The A-10 is assigned to the A-10 Demonstration Team, which is a single-ship demonstration team that travels across the United States, as well as internationally, to highlight the combat capabilities of the A-10 and the U.S. Air Force.

U.S. Air Force Maj. Haden Fullam, A-10C Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team commander and pilot, flies over Tyler, Texas, July 1, 2022. Fullam flew a capability demonstration of the A-10 Thunderbolt II as part of an airshow. During the performance, Fullam showcased different aerial maneuvers, including simulated weapons delivery, highlighting the combat capabilities of the A-10.

U.S. Air Force C-130s conduct an airdrop on Pohakuloa Training Grounds, Hawaii, Nov 1, 2022. Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 23-01 is a regional combat training center (CTC) rotation that builds combat readiness in Americas Pacific Division and is a key way the Army forces engage in a joint environment with our regional allies and partners.

An aircrew with the Wisconsin National Guards 1st Battalion, 147th Aviation Regiment operates a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter Jan. 3, 2024, at Fort McCoy, Wis. Members of the unit regularly complete training operations at Fort McCoy and the unit also supports numerous training events at the installation each year. According to the Army fact sheet for the Black Hawk, its mission is to provide air assault, general support, aeromedical evacuation, command and control, and special operations support to combat, stability, and support operations. The UH-60 also is the Armys utility tactical transport helicopter. The versatile helicopter has enhanced the overall mobility of the Army due to dramatic improvements in troop capacity and cargo lift capability over the years as well.

U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning IIs from the 356th Fighter Squadron at Eielson Air Force Base fly side by side with Republic of Korea Air Force F-35s from the 151st and 152nd Combat Flight Squadrons as part of a bilateral exercise over the Yellow Sea, Republic of Korea, July 12, 2022. Combined training demonstrates our commitmient to the defense of South Korea and is the foundation of maintaining a robust defense posture.

A B-52H Stratofortress aircraft drops Mark 82 500-lb. high-drag bombs on a target range during Exercise Mighty Warrior '88. Subject Operation/Series: MIGHTY WARRIOR '88 Base: Nellis Air Force Base State: Nevada (NV) Country: United States Of America (USA)

A U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II flies over Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona, May 19, 2022. The A-10 Demonstration Teams jet has a heritage paint job to pay tribute to the 355th Tactical Fighter Wings contributions in the Vietnam War, including special dedication to personnel who were killed in action or became prisoners of war.

A U.S. Air Force MC-130J Commando II from the 353rd Special Operations Wing flies overhead as Airmen from the 320th Special Tactics Squadron exit the aircraft over Ie Shima, Japan, March 29, 2023. The STS Airmen conducted static line jumps at 1,000 feet above ground level.

An F-14A Tomcat aircraft approaches for a landing aboard the aircraft carrier USS KITTY HAWK (CV-63) as another F-14A Tomcat flies past. Country: Indian Ocean (IOC)

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