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U.S. Air Force A/OA-10 Engine Study

Customer: US Air Force and Air National Guard

Challenge: The aerodynamic characteristics and limited thrust of the A-10 design severely hampers the ability of the aircraft to operate in a higher "altitude sanctuary". In addition, the key role of the A-10 in the Global War on Terrorism requires forward basing in high altitude and high temperature locations, which routinely limits payloads and places the aircraft and its pilots in dangerous operating envelopes. The USAF and ANG needed assistance in addressing engine deficiencies in the A-10 attack aircraft.

Approach: In order to address this A-10 capability gap, WBB worked closely with Air Force representatives to produce an A-10 Propulsion Capabilities Development Document (CDD).

  • The process began with a detailed Concept of Operations ( ConOps) which described the future operating environment, including illustrative vignettes comparing current and required capabilities.
  • Using the WBB ConOps to provide the critical operational context, WBB worked with Service stakeholders to identify capability gaps and define performance parameters.
  • Finally, WBB employed analytical decision management tools such as ThinkTank™ and Team Expert Choice™ to achieve warfighter "buy-in", prioritize performance parameters, and identify Key Performance Parameters (KPPs).
  • A complex, detailed JCIDS Capability Development Document (CDD) was developed and reviewed with all stakeholders prior to insertion into Air Force and Joint Staffing.

Value: The WBB-produced ConOps provided the indispensable baseline for development of the CDD. The CDD, produced in just over 120 days, captured the capabilities which would result from improved engine thrust for the A-10. As result, the A-10 Propulsion Upgrade sailed through the coordination process with little comment, and achieved Joint support and funding as a Program of Record. In the future, A-10 pilots will have the engine thrust they need to operate, safely and effectively, in the varied environments of the Global War on Terrorism.