The F-35 could never replace the Warthog. The A-10 stands strong A-10: The Fairchild Republic A-10 Warthog (Thunderbolt II) is essentially the descendant of the P-47 Thunderbolt. It holds the record for the largest gun ever put on an aircraft, and probably one of the longest servicing aircraft in the world. Made in the '70s, it was built around a GAU-8 Avenger 30mm Gatling Gun. It has been in service for 48 years, and still prevails at its only role, Close Air Support (CAS). It is loved by ground troops and pretty much is the face of the USAF alongside the F-22 and F-14. 280 Warthogs are still in service and should still stay in service for a few more years. The A-10 also is the only modern military aircraft that is allowed the shark teeth nose art.
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