A-10DX Thunderbolt III (Fantasy Idea)

[SOLIDKREATE]

So, today I just read the USAF is killing the A-10C with no replacement for a CAS aircraft. They will instead rely on the incoming F-35A, F-15EX, and far future F-47. I think, personally, the A-10 could be in the 'X' program and move to Rev 'D':

• New engines, CF34-10A upgraded to MILSPEC. This engine puts down 17,640lbs of thrust each. It is only 5in larger in diamter and actually (2.5in each side of the DIA), and shorter. This would allow much heavier loadouts, better fuel econmy, fast climb rates, faster speed, faster acceleration ect
• Longer wing span, about 1.5ft each side
• Bubble one peice canopy
• Ability to carry SiAW (derrived from AGM-88G AARGM-ER)
• Ability to carry AIM-9X
• Ability to carry new weapons like the Anduril Barracuda, and Altius
• PANTHR (LAD) Large Area Display
• 2X more hard points

 

Edited July 5 by SOLIDKREATE

[Dragon1-1]

I would avoid the bubble canopy, with a CAS aircraft you want a WWII-style armored windshield. More thrust, bigger wings and more stations are always welcome. Also, all stations should be "smart", unlike on the A-10, which only has some of them wired for PGMs.

However, you're not addressing the reason for A-10's retirement: SAMs, particularly MANPADS. Active IRCM is a must if we're making something that's going to fly slow. I'd pack a built-in SPJ, too, in order to avoid having to reserve a hardpoint for a jamming pod. Another thing that would free up a hardpoint is a built-in IR camera and a laser designator, to avoid having to carry a TGP. In addition, this could make the aircraft a capable drone hunter, if it had IRST functionality with enough resolution.

[SOLIDKREATE]

42 minutes ago, Dragon1-1 said:

I would avoid the bubble canopy, with a CAS aircraft you want a WWII-style armored windshield. More thrust, bigger wings and more stations are always welcome. Also, all stations should be "smart", unlike on the A-10, which only has some of them wired for PGMs.

However, you're not addressing the reason for A-10's retirement: SAMs, particularly MANPADS. Active IRCM is a must if we're making something that's going to fly slow. I'd pack a built-in SPJ, too, in order to avoid having to reserve a hardpoint for a jamming pod. Another thing that would free up a hardpoint is a built-in IR camera and a laser designator, to avoid having to carry a TGP. In addition, this could make the aircraft a capable drone hunter, if it had IRST functionality with enough resolution.

They didn't elaborate either (the article) but I like your ideas