>>But I'll always have a soft spot for the Warthog.
>
>That wouldn't really be much of a challenge, though. I mean, as an
>atmospheric ground attack/close air support platform, all the A-10
>will ever need is continually updated electronics. It's an apex
>predator in that role, like a shark. It never needs to evolve again.
>:)
>

Well, some say it needs new engines, but "the bros" have been arguing for that for about a...decade now...I wouldn't bet on this one coming to pass unless they just outright build "Son of A-10" -

But if we're talking about airplanes with an "A" prefix, MOGSY like the A-1E/J Skyraider - aka "Spad" very, very much (speaking of an iconic Vietnam bird.... I recommend the book "My Secret War" by Richard Drury...if you can FIND a copy)

...and, another stalwart rescued from the boneyard...the A-26K "Counter-Invader" - I guess what I dig about our military aviation is our continued ability to modify and resurrect just about, well, ANYTHING.

The "Thud" - G model F-105, was the two-seat Wild Weasel build of the jet, if I'm not mistaken (what can I say, I like SEAD)

Another crasy job - they used the 100 and later the F-4 as a "Fast FAC" with either the famous "Misty" or "Nail" call signs...

http://sgspires.tripod.com/Fast_FACs/fast_facs.html - talk about a white-knuckle job...

"The figures I heard at the time was that you were 25-times more likely to be shot down as a Fast FAC than doing a regular job..." L.D. Johnston