A-10 West Demonstration Team to perform at Luke open House Published March 6, 2009 LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- The Air Combat Command A-10 West Demonstration Team will display the capabilities of the A-10 Thunderbolt II at the Luke Air Force Base Thunder in the Desert Open House March 21 and 22. The United States Air Force Single-Ship Demonstration Team performs precision aerial maneuvers to demonstrate the unique capabilities of the Air Force's high-performance aircraft. The purpose of the single-ship demonstration team is to exhibit the professional qualities the Air Force develops in the people who fly, maintain and support these aircraft. The A/OA-10 -- commonly referred to as the Warthog -- is the first Air Force aircraft specially designed for close air support of ground forces. They are simple, effective and survivable twin-engine jet aircraft that can be used against all ground targets, including tanks and other armored vehicles. The A-10 plays a crucial role in maintaining America's air and space dominance. The aircraft can survive direct hits from armor-piercing and highly explosive projectiles up to 23mm. Additionally, the A-10 can be serviced and operated from bases with limited facilities near battle areas. Many of the aircraft's parts are interchangeable left and right, including the engines, main landing gear and vertical stabilizers. With the A-10's excellent maneuverability at low air speeds and altitude, it is a highly accurate weapons-delivery platform for the joint warfighter. Background information can be found at these links: A-10 West Demo Team: www.acc.af.mil/aerialevents/A10west/index.asp Pilot: Capt. Paul Brown's bio: www.acc.af.mil/library/biographies/bio.asp?id=10324 Courtesy of 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office