The A-10 Thunderbolt II may be well into its fifth decade of service with the U.S. Air Force, but the legendary aircraft remains a fan favorite among industry experts and aviation buffs alike.

The Fairchild A-10 Thunderbolt II, introduced to the United States Air Force (USAF) in mid-'70s, remains a formidable anti-tank and close air support resource for the U.S.