Designed specifically for close air support, the Warthog entered service in 1975. Literally built around the 30mm GAU-8 Gatling gun, the A-10 is also capable of carrying a massive weapons payload under its wings and fuselage, including AGM-65 Maverick missiles. The A-10 is a highly resilient aircraft that features redundant hydraulic systems supported by manual systems. It can survive direct hits from armor-piercing rounds without damage. It flew 8,100 missions during Operation Desert Storm, participated in operations in Afghanistan, and was a key battlefield weapons system during Operation Iraqi Freedom.