Tankbuster Jets Europe - Authorities in the U.S. have deployed a dozen 'tankbusters' to Europe in order to reassure ally and partner nations of the nation's commitment to regional security.
According to the U.S. Air Force European Command reports, the A-10 Thunderbolts designed in the Cold War to provide European ground troops supports against combat Soviet armor, would be sent to the Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany.
The "tankbusters'" journey back to Europe would be the first since 2013. Now the planes are being deployed as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve, which was formed for European security after Russia's recent intervention in Ukraine.
"The Air Force is increasing rotational presence in Europe to reassure our allies and partner nations that our commitment to European security is a priority," Lt. Gen. Tom Jones, vice commander, United States Air Forces in Europe-- Air Forces Africa said.
According to reports, the A-10 s will also be sent to other ally nations in Eastern Europe, where U.S. forces have bases that were operational in the past year.
These nations include Lithuania, Latvia, Poland and Lithuania.
The A-10, also called the "Warthog," is reputed for its ability to destroy tanks. with its nose-mounted, seven-barrel 30 mm Gatling gun, which can fire around 4,000 rounds per minute.
The planes can also carry several missiles and bombs, and are designed for easy maintenance in the battlefield.
Reports indicate that despite the A-10 being used in Operation Inherent Resolve - the U.S. military campaign against ISIS in Syria and Iraq - the planes may be falling out of favor with the Air Force, who are looking to employ the newest fighter, the F-35, to handle ground support missions.
About 300 personnel from Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona are expected to be deployed with the dozen- A-10s. They are expected to arrive in Germany by the end of February and the mission will last for six months.
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