Quote:
Originally Posted by Baron von Kriterium
At the other end of the high-tech spectrum is the very simple (Embraer) A-29, a plane that has a specific purpose of close air support. It is a plane that perhaps many may not have heard of, but is in extensive service throughout the world and has a potential suitor in Sweden, who would use it to complement the Gripen E.
Now, SOCOM is eyeing a fleet of light attack aircraft for 'armed overwatch'. The A-29 is under consideration, as is the (Textron/Beechcraft) AT-6 Wolverine.
Don't be fooled by their small size, "both aircraft pack a wallop. The A-29 comes equipped with two internal .50-cal machine guns with space for additional underwing armaments like 20mm gun pods or MK-81 and Mk 82 bombs, according to Embraer; by comparison, Textron boasts, the Wolverine is "the first fixed-wing aircraft to employ 2.75" laser-guided rockets successfully" and uses an adaptable system to carry all manner of ordnance." |
Apart from presumably more advanced versions of rockets and bombs this is the same payload or less than WW2 fighter bombers carried. For example the Thunderbolt has 8 .50 cal guns plus rockets or bombs.