Introduction

After more than four decades of thrilling airshow audiences worldwide, the U.S. Air Force's A-10 Thunderbolt II Demonstration Team has taken its final bow. Known affectionately as the "Warthog," the A-10 has been a stalwart of close air support, providing invaluable protection to ground troops since its introduction in the 1970s. As we bid farewell to this iconic aircraft's demonstration team, let's reflect on the rich history, unique capabilities, and the legacy it leaves behind.

The A-10 Thunderbolt II: An Unsung Hero

Designed specifically for close air support, the A-10 Thunderbolt II has been a critical asset in the U.S. Air Force's arsenal. Its rugged design, impressive firepower, and survivability made it the go-to aircraft for supporting ground forces in hostile environments.

Key Features

• GAU-8/A Avenger Cannon: The A-10's most distinctive feature is its 30mm seven-barrel Gatling gun, capable of firing up to 3,900 rounds per minute. This formidable weapon can destroy tanks, armored vehicles, and other ground targets with deadly precision.
• Armor and Survivability: The aircraft is built around a titanium "bathtub" that protects the pilot and critical flight systems from ground fire up to 23mm caliber. Its redundant hydraulic systems and manual backup allow the A-10 to fly and land even after sustaining significant damage.
• Maneuverability: With excellent low-speed and low-altitude handling, the A-10 can loiter over battlefields, providing continuous support to ground troops.
• Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL): The Warthog can operate from austere airfields near front lines, increasing its effectiveness in close air support missions.

Avionics and Upgrades

The A-10 has been modernized over the years to enhance its capabilities:

• Night Vision Imaging Systems (NVIS): Allows pilots to conduct operations during darkness using night vision goggles.
• Helmet Mounted Cueing Systems: Provides pilots with enhanced situational awareness and targeting.
• Precision Engagement Upgrades: Integration of advanced targeting pods and GPS-guided munitions.

Operational History

Since its first delivery to Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in 1975, the A-10 has proven its worth in various conflicts:

• Operation Desert Storm (1991): A-10s flew 8,100 sorties, destroyed over 900 Iraqi tanks, and achieved a mission-capable rate of 95.7%.
• Operations in the Balkans (1990s): Provided close air support during conflicts in the former Yugoslavia.
• Global War on Terror (2001-Present): Played a crucial role in Afghanistan and Iraq, supporting troops with precision strikes and reconnaissance.
• Operation Freedom's Sentinel and Resolute Support Mission: A-10s continued to support counterinsurgency efforts and trained Afghan forces.

The A-10 Demonstration Team: Showcasing Air Power

The A-10 Demonstration Team was established to exhibit the capabilities of the Warthog to the public. Based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, the team performed at airshows across the United States and internationally, executing precision aerial maneuvers and demonstrating the aircraft's combat prowess.

Team Composition

• Pilot and Commander: The team was led by an experienced A-10 pilot responsible for executing the demonstration routine.
• Maintenance and Support Crew: A dedicated team of technicians ensured the aircraft was mission-ready, handling everything from avionics to engines.
• Public Affairs Specialist: Managed media relations and community engagement, highlighting the team's mission and the Air Force's role.

Major Lindsay "MAD" Johnson: Breaking Barriers

In 2023, Major Lindsay "MAD" Johnson became the first female commander and pilot of the A-10 Demonstration Team. A veteran with over 1,380 flight hours and 431 combat hours, Major Johnson brought exceptional skill and leadership to the team.

Her appointment was a significant milestone, inspiring a new generation of aviators and demonstrating the Air Force's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

"It's not lost on me that there are young women who can see me in this job and think, 'Okay, well, if she can do it, then I can do it,'" Johnson remarked in an interview. "That's been really cool to have fathers bring their daughters up to me and say, 'Hey, I brought my daughter here to show her that women can do these same things.'"

Showcasing the Warthog's Capabilities

The A-10 Demonstration Team's performances were a blend of precision flying and raw power. Demonstrations included:

• Aerobatic Maneuvers: Showcasing the A-10's agility with steep climbs, tight turns, and rolls.
• Simulated Combat Scenarios: Utilizing pyrotechnics to mimic strafing runs and bombing attacks, highlighting the aircraft's close air support role.
• Heritage Flights: Flying alongside historic aircraft to honor the Air Force's legacy and connect past and present.

One of the most challenging maneuvers performed was the Vertical 540, where the aircraft would climb vertically and execute a 540-degree roll, demonstrating both power and precision.

The Final Season: A Tribute to an Icon

The 2024 airshow season marked the final chapter for the A-10 Demonstration Team. Performing at over 20 events, the team showcased the Warthog's capabilities one last time, culminating in a poignant farewell at the Stuart Airshow in Florida on November 10, 2024.

The final performance featured the specially painted A-10C "Memphis Belle III," adorned in a Vietnam War-era camouflage scheme to honor veterans and commemorate the legacy of the aircraft and those who served with it.

"Our whole purpose has been to give it the farewell tour that we all believe it deserves," Major Johnson stated. "I've been incredibly blessed to fly the A-10, both in combat and during airshows."

The End of an Era: Retiring the A-10

The retirement of the A-10 Demonstration Team coincides with the Air Force's plan to phase out the entire A-10 fleet by 2029. As warfare evolves and new threats emerge, the Air Force is transitioning to more advanced aircraft like the F-35 Lightning II and the AC-130J Ghostrider to meet modern combat demands.

The decision to retire the A-10 was driven by its limitations in contested airspace against modern air defenses. While the Warthog excels in close air support, its vulnerability to advanced anti-aircraft systems necessitates a shift to more survivable platforms.

Transition at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base

Davis-Monthan AFB, the long-standing home of the A-10, began retiring its fleet in early 2024. The base is set to transition to a new mission, hosting units like the MC-130J Commando II and OA-1K Sky Warden, as part of the Air Force Special Operations Command's (AFSOC) restructuring.

A Legacy That Lives On

The impact of the A-10 and its demonstration team extends beyond their operational achievements. The aircraft has become a symbol of close air support excellence, known for its distinctive sound and unwavering presence over battlefields.

Major Johnson emphasized the importance of carrying forward the "attack mindset" that the A-10 community embodies.

"This whole airplane was built to support the 18-year-old with the rifle on the ground," she noted. "Whether you're someone like me who is most likely going to transition to another airplane, or a maintainer who's worked on the aircraft, you should continue on with that attack mindset."

Conclusion

The farewell to the A-10 Demonstration Team is a moment of reflection and gratitude. For over 40 years, the team inspired millions, showcased the incredible capabilities of the Warthog, and honored the men and women who serve.

As we look to the future, the legacy of the A-10 will continue to influence aviation and military strategy. Its lessons in design, functionality, and mission focus will inform the development of new aircraft and the training of future pilots.

Thank you, A-10 Demonstration Team, for your service and the unforgettable memories. Your legacy will not be forgotten.

2024 A-10 Demonstration Team Show List

Buckeye Air Show & Copperstate Fly-In, Buckeye, AZ: February 16-18, 2024

WBCA Stars & Stripes Air Show Spectacular, Laredo, TX: February 25, 2024

Luke Days Air and Space Expo, Luke AFB, AZ: March 23-24, 2024

Tampa Bay AirFest, MacDill AFB, FL: March 29-30, 2024

Laughlin-Bullhead Airshow, Bullhead City, AZ: April 6, 2024

Purdue Aviation Days, Lafayette, IN: April 13, 2024

Vero Beach Air Show, Vero Beach, FL: May 3-5, 2024

Fort Lauderdale Air Show, Fort Lauderdale, FL: May 11-12, 2024

Bethpage Air Show at Jones Beach Park, Wantagh, NY: May 25-26, 2024

Terre Haute Air Show, Terre Haute, IN: June 1-2, 2024

Moses Lake Airshow, Moses Lake, WA: June 15-16, 2024

Fairchild Skyfest, Fairchild AFB, WA: June 22-23, 2024

National Cherry Festival Air Show, Traverse City, MI: June 29-30, 2024

Battle Creek Field of Flight Air Show & Balloon Festival, Battle Creek, MI: July 3-7, 2024

Wings Over Muskegon, Muskegon, MI: August 10-11, 2024

Cleveland National Air Show, Cleveland, OH: August 31-September 2, 2024

CAF High Sky Wing AIRSHO, Midland, TX: September 7-8, 2024

Central Coast AirFest, Santa Maria, CA: September 21-22, 2024

Wings by the Wabash, Robinson, IL: September 28-29, 2024

Pacific Airshow, Huntington Beach, CA: October 4-6, 2024

Stuart Air show, Stuart, FL: November 8-10, 2024

Here's a selection of comments from Instagram on the announcement of the A-10 Demo team's final year.

@thenextgeneagles: "It has been such an honor to fly alongside @mad_a10demo_pilot and the entire team. Look forward to our remaining shows together this year!"

@brakesoffmedia: "Can’t think of a better crew to make the bow after a long-standing run in the industry. Wishing all the best as you continue to fly this season. #attack"

@rod_ae_photo: "Thanks for all the good times! You will be missed."

@513.aviation: "This hurts to read so much. I’ll definitely be attending Cleveland all three days."

@midwest._photographer: "Sad to see you guys go. I will miss this demo team dearly. #Attack!"

@f_14_tomcat_: "From one community to another… We THANK YOU for such legendary leadership. Many will try, most need not apply, at least when it comes to fulfilling the role of this legendary airframe. HOGS FOREVER, BABY!"

@creepingdeath_s1: "I have so many great memories from several decades of A-10 demos at various air shows. Always one of my favorite planes, and I passed it along to my kids. This feels like losing an old friend. Thank you all for everything!"

@irenkupferschmid: "So sad. I always enjoyed seeing the A-10 in Europe, watched it at RAF Bentwaters. I hoped to see the demo team when going into retirement in 2 years and finally having time to travel—but I’m too late. Wish you all the best and a fantastic (last) season. Love from Switzerland."

@swampfoxp51: "Have loved every moment hanging out with A-10 Demo over the years!! Have an awesome fini season! #ATTACK!!"

@rolanddelhomme: "From the start, you all have made every one count and have set a high bar, leaving millions of smiling faces cheering you on. First rate, all the way. If this is the last year they’ll fund, let this be your victory lap. A-10s forever!"

@ms.djrem_aviation: "The end of the most incredible era. I’m especially thankful to be seeing you guys one last time fly over the Pacific in October. This is just the most heartbreaking news."

@creepingdeath_s1: "I have so many great memories from several decades of A-10 demos at various airshows. Always one of my favorite planes, and I passed it along to my kids. This feels like losing an old friend. Thank you all for everything!"

@jasen_ackerman: "This really sucks. Luckily, I’ll see the demo at Traverse City, MI, this year. This was one of my favorite demos. I’ll miss it. (Sad BRRRRT noises)."