PS5375-3 POSTAGE STAMP A-10 1/140 BLACKSNAKES 163 FS INDIANA ANG

The A-10 Thunderbolt II, more commonly known by the nicknames “Warthog” or “Hog”, is a single-seat cantilever low-wing all metal monoplane used for close air support by the U.S. Air Force.  The aircraft has superior loiter capabilities and maintains excellent maneuverability at low speeds and altitude because of its large wing area. The high wing ratio also allows short takeoffs and landings, and its simple design allows operations from forward airfields with limited facilities. The A-10 was designed for short-term response against enemy armored vehicles.  The main feature of the plane is a nose-mounted 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger Gatling-type cannon. One of the most powerful aircraft cannons ever flown, it fires large depleted uranium armor-piercing shells.

The 163rd Fighter Squadron is a unit of the Indiana Air National Guard 122nd Fighter Wing located at Fort Wayne, Indiana. They changed their names from Marksmen to Blacksnakes in 1997 for a less aggressive undertone.  They have been operating A-10’s since 2010.