An upgrade to the A-10A airplane

A handling qualities and performance study of the A-10A airplane as applicable to the land-based close air support mission was completed in 1988. Four test flights were conducted with and without external stores, various internal fuel loadings, and center of gravity locations near the center of the recommended operating range. A small sustained maneuvering envelope, as evidenced by poor sustained turn performance, low maximum level airspeed, and slow acceleration capabilities were revealed during these tests. Also low roll rates were displayed. These characteristics are of a serious nature and will make the airplane vulnerable to hostile forces in a high threat environment. Additionally, slow engine response will likely contribute to airplane mishaps during landing evolutions. While the A-10A airplane continued to demonstrate excellent potential for the close air support mission, development of a performance upgrade is recommended. Engine replacement will offer significant performance improvements with negligible detrimental effects. The proposed General Electric CF34/F7A1 engine will remedy this deficiency. The engine can be available from the manufacturer in the near future and testing can be conducted to verify the predicted performance. A negligible change in center of gravity position due to slightly increased engine weight and a larger fan diameter will not adversely affect flying qualities. However, minimal structural modification due to increased weight and thrust may be necessary for airframe lifetime considerations. Also, several handling quality improvements are recommended and their improvements estimated.