Defense & Military
HAL Receives Fourth GE F404 IN20 Engine for Tejas Fighter Program
HAL receives fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine, advancing India’s Tejas Mark 1A fighter and defense self-reliance amid supply chain challenges.
HAL Receives Fourth GE-F404-IN20 Engine: Critical Milestone in India’s Indigenous Fighter Aircraft Program
The delivery of the fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) marks a pivotal moment in India’s ongoing quest for aerospace self-reliance and the modernization of its air defense capabilities. This event is part of a $716 million contract signed in 2021 for 99 engines and reflects the gradual progress made despite significant Supply-Chain disruptions that have affected the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas Mark 1A program. As the Indian Air Force (IAF) faces the pressing need to replace aging MiG-21 squadrons, the Tejas project and the timely delivery of these engines are increasingly important for both operational readiness and the country’s broader defense Manufacturing ambitions.
HAL expects to receive a total of 12 engines by the end of the current financial year, with plans to ramp up production to 30 aircraft annually by 2026-27. This milestone is not only a technical achievement but also a strategic step toward reducing India’s dependence on foreign defense imports. The broader implications extend to India’s “Make in India” initiative, rising defense budgets, and the country’s evolving role in global aerospace supply chains amid widespread industry disruptions.
Background and Historical Context of the Tejas Program
The Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) program is one of India’s most ambitious indigenous defense initiatives, with roots tracing back to the 1980s. The goal was to replace the IAF’s aging fleet of Soviet-era fighters and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers, a strategic vulnerability highlighted by decades of arms import challenges. The Tejas program’s development journey reflects the complexities and persistence required for indigenous aerospace advancement, especially in a sector as sophisticated as military aviation.
The GE F404 engine family was chosen for the Tejas after extensive collaboration between General Electric and India’s Aeronautical Development Agency, starting in the 1980s. The engine was formally selected in 2004, following rigorous evaluation of available options and India’s long-term strategic objectives. This partnership laid the groundwork for gradual technology transfer and knowledge sharing, crucial for the program’s maturation.
Initial procurement included 10 F404-F2J3 engines for technology demonstrators and prototypes, followed by additional contracts in 2004 and 2007 for 17 and 24 engines respectively. By 2016, 75 engines (both F2J3 and IN20 variants) had been delivered, supporting the transition from development to operational service. As of mid-2025, the IAF operates two Tejas Mark 1 squadrons, with 38 of 40 ordered aircraft delivered and the final two trainers expected soon. This operational status signals the program’s steady progress and its role in filling the capability gap left by the recent retirement of the MiG-21 squadrons.
“The retirement of the MiG-21 after more than six decades of service underscores the urgency and significance of the Tejas program for India’s air defense needs.”
The F404-IN20 Engine: Technical Specifications and Strategic Importance
The F404-GE-IN20 engine is a highly advanced adaptation of GE’s proven F404 family, designed to meet the specific requirements of the Tejas Mark 1A. This variant is the highest thrust version, producing up to 85 kN (19,000 lbf) with afterburner, compared to the baseline’s 78.7 kN. It also features increased airflow (153 lb/sec vs. 146 lb/sec) and a higher pressure ratio (28:1 vs. 26:1), contributing to improved thrust and fuel efficiency.
Advanced materials such as single-crystal turbine blades and ceramic matrix composites, along with enhanced cooling systems, enable reliable performance in India’s hot and humid conditions. The Full Authority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) system, adapted from GE’s F414 engine, provides precise digital control, optimizing fuel efficiency and enabling predictive maintenance through in-flight engine condition monitoring. This reduces unscheduled maintenance and increases fleet availability.
The F404-IN20’s combat-proven heritage, over 13 million flight hours on platforms like the F/A-18 Hornet, offers confidence in its reliability and performance. The engine’s six-module architecture ensures ease of maintenance and component interchangeability, while its unrestricted throttle response and afterburner stability provide the responsive power required for modern air combat. These features, combined with the Tejas’s advanced Avionics, position the Mark 1A as a competitive platform in the global fighter market.
“The F404-IN20 engine’s unrestricted performance, advanced materials, and digital controls make it a cornerstone of the Tejas Mark 1A’s operational capabilities and India’s defense self-reliance efforts.”
Supply Chain Challenges and Delivery Timeline Analysis
The F404-IN20 program has faced significant supply chain disruptions, reflecting broader vulnerabilities in the global aerospace sector. The original 2021 Contracts for 99 engines was delayed by nearly two years due to issues such as the closure and subsequent restart of GE’s production line, and problems with a South Korean component supplier. These disruptions mirror a 35% increase in aerospace supply chain disruptions globally between 2023 and 2024.
Restarting the GE production line in Boston after a five-year hiatus required coordination with suppliers, workforce retraining, and quality system revalidation. The South Korean supplier issue highlighted the risks of single-source dependencies in complex supply chains, where lead times for critical components can extend to 18-24 months. The recovery plan now targets the delivery of 12 engines in the current financial year, with a steady rate of 20 engines annually from 2026 onward.
These supply chain issues have affected HAL’s production planning, with several Tejas Mark 1A airframes ready but awaiting engines. The mismatch between aircraft readiness and engine availability has led to inventory and resource allocation challenges. Such disruptions not only delay deliveries but also increase costs and can impact the IAF’s operational readiness. Broader industry data indicates that about 30% of aerospace companies have experienced cost impacts of 1% to over 5% due to supply chain and regulatory challenges.
Financial and Strategic Implications for India’s Defense Sector
The F404-IN20 engine program is a major financial undertaking for India, with the initial $716 million contract likely to be followed by an additional Orders for 113 engines, potentially bringing the total value to $1.7 billion. This investment is a cornerstone of India’s broader defense modernization strategy, which has seen the defense budget rise from ₹2.53 lakh crore in 2013-14 to ₹6.81 lakh crore in 2025-26.
Beyond procurement, the program supports India’s goal of building a robust indigenous defense industry. Defense production reached ₹1.27 lakh crore in 2023-24, a 174% increase from a decade earlier. The Ministry of Defence has prioritized domestic contracts, with 177 of 193 contracts in 2024-25 awarded to Indian industry. The Tejas program’s increasing indigenous content, targeted to exceed 70%, and the establishment of local maintenance and overhaul facilities further reduce reliance on foreign suppliers.
The F404-IN20’s improved fuel efficiency and longer maintenance intervals (over 1,000 flight hours between overhauls) are expected to yield operational savings of 15-20% compared to previous engines. Additionally, the program lays the groundwork for technology transfer in future projects, such as the F414 engine for the Tejas Mark 2 and the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) program. The Tejas’s export potential, supported by HAL’s design and software customization capabilities, could further enhance India’s defense sector revenues.
“India’s defense production has increased by 174% in a decade, and the Tejas program’s growing indigenous content exemplifies the country’s shift toward self-reliance and global competitiveness.”
Future Outlook and Production Capacity Planning
HAL’s production strategy for the Tejas Mark 1A involves a distributed model, with manufacturing lines in Bangalore and Nashik, and significant contributions from private sector partners. This approach aims to achieve the target of 30 aircraft annually by 2026-27, a significant scale-up from current rates. Private companies like Alpha Tocol Engineering Services and VEM Technologies are supplying major airframe components, increasing the resilience and capacity of the supply chain.
The engine supply schedule remains the primary constraint on production scaling. HAL’s plans are predicated on GE delivering 12 engines in 2025-26 and 20 engines annually thereafter. The IAF’s long-term procurement plan for 352 Tejas aircraft (including Mark 1A and Mark 2 variants) provides a stable demand base, supporting investment in capacity expansion and technology upgrades.
The success of the Mark 1A program will influence the development of the Tejas Mark 2 (with F414 engines) and the AMCA, India’s planned fifth-generation stealth fighter. Lessons learned from current supply chain and production challenges will inform future projects. Additionally, the export potential of the Tejas, enabled by HAL’s customization capabilities, could open new markets and further justify Investments in production capacity.
Global Aerospace Supply Chain Context and Industry Challenges
The F404-IN20 program’s challenges reflect systemic issues in the global aerospace supply chain. Disruptions increased by 35% from 2023 to 2024, with factory fires and labor strikes (notably the Boeing machinists’ strike) among the leading causes. The aerospace industry’s reliance on single-source suppliers and just-in-time inventory practices has heightened vulnerability to such events.
Labor disruptions surged by 33% in 2024, with the Boeing strike alone costing $9.7 billion and causing significant production delays. Material shortages, especially of steel and titanium, and regulatory compliance requirements have further constrained production. At least one-third of aerospace companies report being unprepared for planned production rate increases due to capacity and workforce limitations.
To mitigate these risks, nearly a quarter of companies are adopting regionalized supply chains, balancing global sourcing with local redundancy. Regulatory compliance, particularly related to sustainability, adds further complexity and cost. The lessons from the F404-IN20 supply chain disruptions underscore the need for greater resilience, redundancy, and strategic planning in both Indian and global aerospace manufacturing.
“Aerospace supply chain disruptions rose 35% in a single year, highlighting the need for resilience and strategic risk management in defense manufacturing.”
Conclusion
The delivery of the fourth GE-F404-IN20 engine to HAL is more than a technical milestone; it symbolizes India’s determined pursuit of defense self-reliance and the modernization of its aerospace capabilities. The journey has been marked by significant challenges, particularly in supply chain management, but also by steady progress in indigenous production, technology transfer, and strategic partnership building.
As India continues to expand its defense manufacturing base and aims for ambitious production targets, the lessons learned from the F404-IN20 program will shape future projects and enhance the country’s position in the global aerospace sector. The successful integration of public and private sector capabilities, combined with a focus on resilience and innovation, will be crucial for sustaining this momentum and achieving long-term strategic objectives.
FAQ
Q: What is the significance of the F404-IN20 engine for the Tejas Mark 1A?
A: The F404-IN20 is a high-thrust, advanced variant of GE’s F404 engine, offering improved performance, reliability, and digital controls. It is critical for the operational capabilities of the Tejas Mark 1A and supports India’s drive for defense self-reliance.
Q: Why were there delays in engine deliveries?
A: Delays were caused by global supply chain disruptions, including the closure and restart of GE’s production line and issues with a South Korean component supplier. These reflect broader challenges in the aerospace industry.
Q: How does the Tejas program support India’s defense manufacturing goals?
A: The program increases indigenous content, builds local manufacturing and maintenance capabilities, and supports technology transfer. It is a key part of India’s strategy to reduce reliance on foreign imports and grow its defense sector.
Q: What are the future prospects for the Tejas and its engines?
A: Future prospects include expanded production for the IAF, development of the more advanced Tejas Mark 2, potential exports, and ongoing technology transfer initiatives with GE and other partners.
Sources
Photo Credit: The Economic Times
Defense & Military
Boeing Validates Stealth Performance of MQ-28 Ghost Bat Drone
Boeing confirms the stealth capabilities of its MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone after extensive radar testing, marking a key milestone in its development.
This article is based on an official press release from Boeing.
On June 1, 2026, Boeing announced a major milestone for its uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, successfully validating the stealth performance of the MQ-28 Ghost Bat. According to an official press release from the aerospace manufacturers, the validation took place at its facilities in Brisbane, Queensland, marking a critical step forward in proving the drone’s survivability in contested airspace.
We at AirPro News recognize this development as a significant indicator of the maturing CCA market. The MQ-28, designed to operate as a “loyal wingman” alongside crewed fighter jets, relies on its low-observable characteristics to perform high-risk missions without endangering human pilots. By confirming its stealth capabilities, Boeing provides military customers with the objective data needed to assess detection risks, support certification decisions, and guide future tactical choices.
Validating the Ghost Bat’s Stealth Capabilities
Radar Cross Section Testing
The recent validation was achieved through comprehensive Radar Cross Section (RCS) testing. According to the company’s announcement, Boeing engineers analyzed the aircraft’s radar detectability from multiple angles inside a specialized test chamber. This rigorous evaluation included measurements across elevation (pitch), azimuth (nose to tail), and roll (rotation around the aircraft).
While specific RCS figures and the radar bands utilized during the testing remain classified, Boeing noted that the confirmed low RCS effectively reduces the distance at which enemy radar systems can detect and engage the MQ-28. This capability is essential for the platform to operate effectively in highly contested environments.
“The combination of a highly capable platform, stealth features, advanced autonomy and artificial intelligence provides unprecedented ability for air forces to extend their mission effectiveness and operational flexibility.”
Program Milestones and Expanding Capabilities
Recent Flight and Weapons Tests
The MQ-28 program has advanced rapidly since its inaugural flight in February 2021. Based on historical program data and industry reports, the aircraft has accumulated over 150 test flights. The stealth validation follows a series of critical milestones achieved over the past year.
In early 2026, the MQ-28 completed its first operational flights outside of Australia. These tests took place over the Point Mugu Sea Range at Naval Base Ventura County in California, aiming to validate autonomous operations and demonstrate interoperability with allied forces. Prior to this, in December 2025, Boeing and the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) successfully completed an air-to-air weapon engagement, where an MQ-28 fired an AIM-120 missile to destroy a fighter-class target drone. Furthermore, operational viability demonstrations were completed in September 2025.
Aircraft Specifications and Role
Developed primarily by Boeing Australia in partnership with the RAAF, the MQ-28 is the first military-aircraft to be designed, engineered, and manufactured in Australia in over 50 years. The aircraft measures 38 feet (11.7 meters) in length and boasts a range of over 2,000 nautical miles.
It features a modular “missionized” nose, allowing ground crews to rapidly swap payloads based on mission requirements. Its primary roles include intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare, and tactical early warning, complementing existing crewed assets like the F/A-18F Super Hornet and E-7A Wedgetail.
AirPro News analysis
The defense aviation sector is currently experiencing a massive shift toward autonomous and semi-autonomous uncrewed systems. As next-generation crewed fighter jets become increasingly expensive to produce and maintain, global air forces are prioritizing “affordable combat mass.”
We observe that drones like the MQ-28 Ghost Bat offer a highly cost-effective method to multiply force capabilities and increase fleet size. By absorbing risks in dangerous environments, these platforms protect human pilots while maintaining air superiority. The recent testing in California, combined with this newly validated stealth performance, strongly positions the MQ-28 for the international export market. It presents a compelling option for allied nations seeking to modernize their air combat strategies with interoperable, low-observable drone technology.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the MQ-28 Ghost Bat?
The MQ-28 Ghost Bat is an uncrewed Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) developed by Boeing Australia and the Royal Australian Air Force. It is designed to act as a “loyal wingman,” flying alongside and supporting crewed military aircraft using advanced autonomy and artificial intelligence.
Why is stealth validation important for the MQ-28?
Stealth validation, achieved through Radar Cross Section (RCS) testing, confirms the aircraft’s low-observable design. This reduces the distance at which enemy radar can detect the drone, significantly enhancing its survivability in hostile and contested airspace.
What are the specifications of the MQ-28?
The aircraft is 38 feet (11.7 meters) long, has a range exceeding 2,000 nautical miles, and features a modular nose for rapid payload swapping to suit various mission profiles.
Sources
Photo Credit: Boeing
Defense & Military
USAF Launches EPAWSS Speedline to Accelerate F-15E Modernization
The USAF establishes an EPAWSS Speedline at Warner Robins to rapidly upgrade F-15E Strike Eagles with advanced electronic warfare systems starting June 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center.
Air Force Launches EPAWSS Speedline to Accelerate F-15E Modernization
On May 26, 2026, the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) announced the establishment of a dedicated “Speedline” facility at the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex (WR-ALC) in Georgia. This new initiative is designed to rapidly accelerate the installation of the Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS) on the U.S. Air Force’s F-15E Strike Eagle fleet.
According to the official press release, the Speedline facility is slated to receive its first F-15E aircraft for installation in June 2026. By decoupling these critical electronic warfare upgrades from standard Programmed Depot Maintenance (PDM) schedules, the Air Force aims to field advanced defensive capabilities much faster than previously possible.
We note that this shift in maintenance strategy allows the military to upgrade jets up to five to seven years ahead of their routine maintenance cycles. This collaborative effort between the AFLCMC’s F-15 System Program Office and the WR-ALC is expected to significantly boost fleet readiness against modern electromagnetic threats.
Breaking the Maintenance Bottleneck
Operational Independence
Historically, major system upgrades for fighter aircraft have been tied to their routine depot maintenance schedules, which can create bottlenecks for fielding urgent technology. The AFLCMC’s new Speedline operates entirely independently of the standard PDM line.
This operational independence provides the F-15 System Program Office and WR-ALC the flexibility to install the EPAWSS on aircraft that are not due for routine maintenance for another five to seven years. By treating the electronic warfare upgrade as a standalone priority, the Air Force can modernize its fleet at a pace dictated by tactical necessity rather than logistical routine.
Understanding the EPAWSS Upgrade
Replacing Cold War-Era Technology
The Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System is a next-generation, all-digital electronic warfare suite. Based on the provided research data, it is designed to replace the legacy Tactical Electronic Warfare System (TEWS), which relies on Cold War-era analog equipment.
Developed by prime contractor BAE Systems, with Boeing serving as the prime contractor for integration, EPAWSS provides fully integrated radar warning, geolocation, situational awareness, and self-protection solutions. The system allows the aircraft to detect, identify, and defeat surface and airborne threats in highly contested, dense signal environments.
Financial and Production Milestones
The U.S. Air Force officially cleared EPAWSS for full-rate production in early 2025. Concurrently, the Air Force awarded a $615.8 million contract to Boeing to cover the installation of these systems. Shortly after this award, the first fully equipped F-15E was delivered to the 48th Fighter Wing at RAF Lakenheath in the United Kingdom, marking a major milestone in the modernization of the 4th-generation fleet.
Strategic Importance and Lethality
Expanding the F-15E’s Capabilities
The integration of EPAWSS is not merely a defensive measure; it is a comprehensive upgrade to the aircraft’s survivability and lethality. In the official AFLCMC release, military leadership emphasized the strategic necessity of the system.
“The F-15E Strike Eagle remains a cornerstone of our tactical airpower and deep strike capabilities. The integration of advanced electronic warfare suites, such as the Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System, ensures the F-15E will not just survive, but actively disrupt and dismantle adversary kill chains in the most highly contested, electromagnetically dense environments.”
, Lt. Col. Matthew Heil, F-15 Program Office, EPAWSS Materiel Leader
AirPro News analysis
We observe that the creation of the EPAWSS Speedline reflects a broader Department of Defense trend toward agile logistics and sustainment. By separating critical combat upgrades from time-consuming depot maintenance, the military is demonstrating a commitment to fielding new technologies to the warfighter at a much faster pace.
Furthermore, as the U.S. Air Force continues to develop and field 5th-generation fighters like the F-35 and F-22, alongside future 6th-generation platforms, maintaining the survivability of 4th-generation “workhorse” aircraft is a strategic priority. EPAWSS ensures that older airframes like the F-15E can safely and effectively operate alongside stealth fighters in modern, highly contested combat scenarios, bridging the gap between legacy platforms and future air dominance initiatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the EPAWSS Speedline?
The EPAWSS Speedline is a dedicated installation facility at the Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex designed to rapidly equip F-15E Strike Eagles with the new Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability System, independent of standard maintenance schedules.
When will the first aircraft be upgraded at the Speedline?
According to the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, the facility is slated to receive its first F-15E aircraft for installation in June 2026.
Who are the primary contractors for EPAWSS?
BAE Systems is the prime contractor that developed the EPAWSS, while Boeing serves as the prime contractor for the system’s integration and installation on the F-15E.
Sources
Photo Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Codie Trimble
Defense & Military
Final A-10 Engine Build Marks End of Davis-Monthan Maintenance Era
Davis-Monthan AFB completes last A-10 engine build as USAF extends aircraft service life through 2030, ending a 50-year maintenance mission.
This article is based on an official press release from Air Combat Command.
On May 21, 2026, Airmen at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona officially completed their final A-10 Thunderbolt II engine build. According to an official release from Air Combat Command, this milestone marks the end of a decades-long maintenance mission for the 355th Component Maintenance Squadron (CMS) and serves as a symbolic closing chapter for the base’s 50-year legacy with the iconic close-air-support aircraft.
While the U.S. Air-Forces recently announced a partial extension of the A-10’s operational life through 2030, the formal training and heavy maintenance pipelines, including the dedicated Davis-Monthan engine shop, are officially shutting down. As the military transitions to future platforms, the completion of this final General Electric TF34 turbofan engine represents the end of an era for the maintainers who kept the “Warthog” flying.
We at AirPro News have reviewed the official military releases and supplementary research to provide a comprehensive look at what this final build means for the U.S. Air Force, the maintainers on the ground, and the future of the A-10 fleet.
A Historic Final Build for the 355th CMS
A standard A-10 engine build is a rigorous, multi-stage operation that typically takes 30 days to complete. The process involves meticulous inspection, repair, rebuilding, and testing of the General Electric TF34 turbofan engines that power the A-10C Thunderbolt II. According to military reports, a single crew of five maintainers usually handles the entire process for a given engine.
Hands-On Participation
For this historic final build, the 355th CMS broke from tradition. Every member of the shop participated, ensuring that all personnel had the opportunity to put their hands on the final engine throughout its diagnostic runs and final inspection. The final engine test was successfully conducted in the test cell on April 30, 2026, verifying its performance and flight readiness.
The process officially concluded on May 21, 2026, when Tech. Sgt. Logan Lamb, a 355th Maintenance Group quality assurance inspector, stamped the final inspection form. Wing leadership and the 355th CMS gathered to celebrate the completion, reflecting on the gravity of their work.
“Some, if not all these engines have saved lives on the ground through close air support missions, and some have carried pilots home while the other engine was damaged. All members of the shop put eyes and hands on this engine throughout the build, testing, diagnostic runs and final inspection. Typically, only one crew of five would work on any one engine, but this engine has been touched by everyone.”
The Warthog’s Legacy and Future Operations
Davis-Monthan AFB has served as the primary hub for A-10 operations and training for nearly 50 years. However, the base began divesting its A-10 fleet in February 2024, sending the first aircraft to the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group, commonly known as the “Boneyard.” On April 3, 2026, the 357th Fighter Squadron at Davis-Monthan graduated its final class of A-10 pilots, permanently closing the formal training pipeline for the aircraft.
Service Extension Through 2030
Despite the closures at Davis-Monthan, the A-10 will continue to fly. On April 20, 2026, Air Force Secretary Troy E. Meink announced that the Air Force will extend the service life of the remaining A-10 fleet through 2030, reversing a previous plan to retire the aircraft by 2029. According to defense reports, this decision was heavily influenced by the A-10’s recent combat performance in Operation Epic Fury, a U.S. campaign against Iran in late March and April 2026, where the aircraft successfully struck naval vessels and provided critical close air support.
AirPro News analysis
The decision to extend the A-10’s service life through 2030 while simultaneously closing its primary heavy maintenance and training facilities presents a unique logistical scenario. The Air Force is utilizing what it calls a “fleet management strategy.” Because the Davis-Monthan engine shop and the pilot “schoolhouse” are now closed, operational squadrons at bases like Moody AFB and Whiteman AFB will be operating on borrowed time. They will have to rely entirely on existing experienced personnel, stockpiled parts, and the durability of engines like the one just completed by the 355th CMS to sustain operations until the final retirement date. This strategy underscores the military’s confidence in the robust engineering of the TF34 engines and the meticulous groundwork laid by aerospace Propulsion Airmen over the past decades.
The Unsung Heroes of Aerospace Propulsion
The longevity and survivability of the A-10 Thunderbolt II are directly tied to the expertise of aerospace propulsion Airmen. These maintainers are responsible for ensuring the aircraft remains lethal and capable of returning pilots home safely, even after taking heavy fire.
Their daily responsibilities include conducting borescope inspections to identify internal engine issues early and prevent catastrophic failures. They also manage test cell operations, running the engines in a controlled environment while monitoring critical readings from a control cab to verify performance before the engine is ever attached to an airframe.
“I think the legacy of the A-10 is going to be remembered for generations. The A-10 will be missed here in Arizona.”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What engine does the A-10 Thunderbolt II use?
The A-10 is powered by twin General Electric TF34 turbofan engines. These engines are renowned for their durability and ability to sustain damage while still bringing pilots home safely.
Why is the A-10’s service life being extended to 2030?
Air Force Secretary Troy E. Meink announced the extension on April 20, 2026, following the aircraft’s highly successful combat performance during Operation Epic Fury in early 2026. The extension reverses previous plans to retire the fleet by 2029.
Is Davis-Monthan AFB still training A-10 pilots?
No. The 357th Fighter Squadron at Davis-Monthan graduated its final class of A-10 pilots on April 3, 2026, officially closing the formal training pipeline for the aircraft.
Sources: Air Combat Command
Photo Credit: U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Christopher Ornelas Jr.
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