A-10C as 'thunderstorm chaser / research platform'

Flanker · Post by **Flanker** » 07 Jul 2014, 10:32

http://www.airforcemag.com/Features/Pag ... rthog.aspx

Alpha Kilo One · Post by **Alpha Kilo One** » 07 Jul 2014, 19:47

I don't get it.....
Does it make sense to use a plane that small in violence of nature?

Paveway · Post by **Paveway** » 09 Jul 2014, 11:27

Alpha Kilo One wrote:I don't get it.....
Does it make sense to use a plane that small in violence of nature?

The most likely reason might be that the A-10 Thunderbolt (name says it all!) is known for its robust design and the airframe can withstand quite some level of violent stresses from the environment.
On the other hand, it can 'fight' the storm better than the current stormchasers e.g. P-3 Orion, C-130 Hercules etc.

phkza · Post by **phkza** » 09 Jul 2014, 11:43

Plus, the A-10 has an ejection seat. Although using that in a thunderstorm might be quite a thrill... Rangewise I think the A-10 is less suited than the current Orions though.

grim83 · Post by **grim83** » 15 Jul 2014, 15:33

phkza wrote:Rangewise I think the A-10 is less suited than the current Orions though.

Really?

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