a10 warthog
Definition
A popular nickname for the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt II, a rugged U.S. Air Force close air support aircraft renowned for its massive 30mm GAU-8 Avenger rotary cannon and exceptional survivability in combat.
The 'Warthog' moniker reflects the plane's squat, utilitarian design, bristly underbelly armor, and aggressive ground-attack role, evoking the image of the armored African mammal.
Examples
The A-10 Warthog shredded the enemy convoy with its signature BRRRRT, leaving scrap metal confetti in its wake.
Pilots call the A-10 Warthog their 'flying tank' because it shrugs off hits like a bad blind date.
In aviation circles, the A-10 Warthog is the ultimate underdog: ugly on the outside, but a beast when it comes to saving ground troops.
Spot an A-10 Warthog on the horizon, and tanks start writing their last wills and testaments.