1992 - RAF Bentwaters: Home of the European Thunderbolts
RAF Bentwaters was a major USAF A-10 Thunderbolt II base during the Cold War. Beginning in 1978, the 81st Tactical Fighter Wing replaced its F-4 Phantoms with A-10s, making Bentwaters one of the first European bases for the aircraft. Alongside nearby RAF Woodbridge, it supported NATO’s mission to counter potential Warsaw Pact armored attacks in Europe.
Throughout the 1980s, Bentwaters’ A-10 squadrons focused on close air support and anti-tank operations, with hardened shelters and upgraded facilities built for wartime readiness. After the Cold War ended, A-10 operations were gradually reduced, and the last aircraft left in 1993. Bentwaters remains closely associated with the A-10’s European service history.
Throughout the 1980s, Bentwaters’ A-10 squadrons focused on close air support and anti-tank operations, with hardened shelters and upgraded facilities built for wartime readiness. After the Cold War ended, A-10 operations were gradually reduced, and the last aircraft left in 1993. Bentwaters remains closely associated with the A-10’s European service history.
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