For aviation enthusiasts; The A-10 quietly got a new refueling capability

[Jersey mike]

This was dated 4/7/26

" The A-10C Can Now Use Probe and Drogue Refueling"


https://theaviationist.com/2026/04/07/a-10c-can-now-use-probe-and-drogue-refueling/


This has a short video of plane getting refueled;

https://www.airandspaceforces.com/new-device-another-way-refuel-a-10-warthog/


https://www.ang.af.mil/Media/Article-Display/Article/4454162/aatc-leads-multi-organization-team-fields-refueling-probe-for-a-10s-in-record-t/



Lots of other sources as well, I used A-10 Thunderbolt II new refueling system

[LadyDraco]

My buddy that was first boots down Marine in Desert Storm.
He said they loved the A-10 WH !!!
 

[Serk]

Smile and say BRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRT.....

Hope we need to use 'em only minimally...

...glad we've got 'em.

[Jersey mike]

LadyDraco, I've heard that same sentiment many times   and yet there are those who want to retire the A-10, I just don't get it.


Serk, that's a great picture and certainly puts that cannon into perspective. I mean even the rifling stands out.

[Jersey mike]

Apparently the A-10 has also been outfitted with the "Angry Kitten" Electronic Warfare System as well. Geeze now it's even more dangerous and I guess a little stealthy.


Only a portion is posted below.

" A-10C Thunderbolt II Deploys to Middle East with New Refueling Adapter and Advanced 'Angry Kitten' EW Pod"

Unlike traditional jamming systems, Angry Kitten can detect, classify, record, manipulate, and retransmit hostile radio frequency signals in order to confuse enemy radar systems and generate false targets. The pod uses a cognitive electronic warfare architecture built around its "Technique Description Language", combining high-speed processing hardware with adaptive software capable of selecting tailored responses against evolving threats.

A key feature of the system is its rapid reprogrammability. Engineers and government operators can update jamming techniques and threat libraries in near real-time without returning the hardware to a contractor facility, allowing faster adaptation to unfamiliar or changing air defense systems.


https://www.thedefensenews.com/A-10C-Thunderbolt-II-Deploys-to-Middle-East-with-New-Refueling-Adapter-and-Advanced-Angry-Kitten-EW-Pod/

[Hook#3287]

A-10's were stationed at Barns Airport in Westfield,MA years ago and I would see them in air.

I always thought they were slow for a jet, not understanding that was their mission.

The size of the cannon holes next to Serks mug gives you all ya need to know, that you don't want to see that jet looking at you.😀

The saying "if you hear the cannon, your not the target" is amazing.

[scooperhsd]

The A-10 is not well liked by Air Force senior leadership - the usual ground support mission is apparently not "sexy" enough for AF egos. I understand all the ground troops loving the A-10.

[LadyDraco]

The unmistakable sound of the A-10!

[Hook#3287]

The A-10 is not well liked by Air Force senior leadership - the usual ground support mission is apparently not "sexy" enough for AF egos. I understand all the ground troops loving the A-10.

I thought I saw that the USMC was interested in taking the A-10 under their wing.

Seems a good fit.

[Jersey mike]

If they ever do "get put out to pasture" I think there will be a big number of people who will snatch some up for private use and air shows. I recently watched something on tv about what a big following the P-51 has and there are quite a few private owners who fly them around for air shows and such which makes me think the same might happen for the A-10, people love them.

As far as military usage, if it ain't broke don't fix it or replace it. The A-10 is not something to delete out of age, it's proven itself time and time again.

[Hook#3287]

P-51! My favorite all time and WW2 aircraft.

Slowly being replaced by the A-10.

Many P-51's in private hands and still flying.

Jack Roush and Tom Cruise both own one.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_surviving_North_American_P-51_Mustangs#Airworthy

I'm not sure A-10s would be allowed in the private sector, except non flying museum units.

[Willow]

The A-10 is not well liked by Air Force senior leadership - the usual ground support mission is apparently not "sexy" enough for AF egos. I understand all the ground troops loving the A-10.

I thought I saw that the USMC was interested in taking the A-10 under their wing.

Seems a good fit.

And if they do it will be an excellent fit.  USMC flew Warthogs many years ago.  For close air support the USMC is the best.  USMC and the best close air support aircraft are a natural.