In an interview with Reuters, Oleksandr Syrskyi, the commander of Ukraine’s Ground Forces, expressed the pressing need for more attack aircraft, specifically mentioning the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II as a desired addition to their arsenal. Contrary to expectations, the F-16 was not included in this wishlist.
Syrskyi’s statement emphasizes the strategic necessity for aircraft capable of providing decisive ground support, highlighting the role of A-10s in targeting ground threats like tanks and artillery. Additionally, attack helicopters such as the AH-64 Apache and AH-1 Super Cobra, along with the multi-purpose UH-60 Black Hawk, are on Ukraine’s radar for enhancing their combat capabilities.
The A-10 Thunderbolt, an American subsonic attack aircraft, has been lauded for its reliability and effectiveness in various conflicts. Designed for low-altitude maneuverability and to fulfill an effective CAS (Close Air Support) role, it is equipped with a GAU-8 Avenger cannon that can fire uranium-depleted armor-piercing ammunition and multiple weapon systems, making it a formidable force against land targets.
This aircraft would complement Ukraine’s Sukhoi Su-25 Frogfoot, a cold-war contender the Soviet Union developed in the 1970s for its own CAS missions.
Ukraine’s Ongoing Military Challenges
Amidst intense battles and shifting frontlines, Syrskyi underscores the need for more military aircraft like the A-10 for infantry support and ones capable of launching long-range cruise missiles. These assets could provide a significant boost to Ukrainian forces in the ongoing conflict.
Syrskyi, in his strategic assessment, indicates potential for future breakthroughs despite the current stalemate. He emphasizes the importance of exploiting weak points in Russian defenses and adapting to the evolving dynamics of the war.
