blackaeronaut Wrote:Rod H Wrote:Hey it's the Airforces' version of some Navy vessels, a transportation package wrapped around some awesome BFG's. Quite literal with the Hog and seemingly accidental with the AC-130. And to think the USAF wants to drop both of those planes from the roster.Chih! No kidding! And at a time when Danger-Close operations are a regular occurrence.
It's more a matter of a collection of high-ranking people not liking the fact that they have to do CAS for the ground pounders and see it as taking funds from their pet projects and what not. For example the A-10 before it's recent avionics upgrade, the pilots had to use hand-held laser-targeters, hand-held infantry radios and portable GPS units just to do their job, for nearly two decades going from the accounts I've read.
As for the AC-130 well I think they have pretty much been on USSOCOMs books since formation, so I do believe I miss-stated earlier about the USAF wanting to drop it. For if they could do that, it will still fly just crewed with Navy, Army & Marines personal.
--Rod.H