Facelift

Released by 52nd Fighter Wing Public Affairs August 31, 2009:



A gutted A-10 Thunderbolt II is converted from the A to C model August 27, 2009, at S.A.B.C.A. The entire 81st Fighter Squadron fleet is undergoing the conversion, which enables the pilot to deliver precision-guided munitions, enhances digital communications with more air and ground forces, and moves several switches to the throttle and stick so that the pilot limits heads down time enabling him/her to focus outside of the cockpit directly into the battlespace. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Kathleen Polesnak) Hi-res



Wires spill out of an A-10 undergoing the A to C model conversion August 27, 2009, at Societe Anonyme Belge De Constructions Aeronautiques, or S.A.B.C.A., a depot in Belgium that accomplishes major overhauls of the aircraft for the 81st Fighter Squadron's A-10 Thunderbolt IIs. This aircraft is one of seven left in the squadron to receive the conversion. (U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Kathleen Polesnak) Hi-res

Please note: The left air intake cover is from A-10 81-0945. Because the aircraft is also marked FSP-945 (FSP probably for Fighter Spangdahlem?) by S.A.B.C.A., it must be really A-10 81-01945.

Source

Related info:
When a "C" is better than an "A"
81st Fighter Squadron's Warthog upgrade lauded
S.A.B.C.A.

For upgraded Spang A-10Cs please also check my latest 81st Fighter Squadron photo updates, mostly provided by German aviation photographers. Every Spang Hog with Sniper XR targeting pod is an A-10C. Search