The 355th Wing at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz., has received its first A-10 Warthog revamped under the Air Force’s A-10C precision engagement program. Among improvements that should extend the life of the A-10 fleet into the 2020s are new sensors that provide weapons accuracy from greater distances, communications enhancements, and new cockpit displays. “We’re going to see at least another generation of the A-10,” said Col. Kent Laughbaum, 355th Wing commander, adding, “It is an exciting day for Davis-Monthan and the A-10 community.”
U.S. Southern Command recently announced its first lethal strike on a suspected narco-trafficking vessel in two months, and the first under a newly formed permanent counter-cartel task force. The U.S. is also reportedly planning to transfer MQ-9 drones to Colombia to bolster its counter-cartel efforts.