A-10s Return From Operation Epic Fury With Nose Art, Bomb Markings And Iranian Vessel Kill Markings
The Aviationist • • world
Key Points:
- On June 12, 2026, 11 A-10C Thunderbolt II jets from Moody Air Force Base returned to the UK after deployment in the CENTCOM area, participating in Operation Epic Fury and missions over Iraq and Syria.
- The jets featured bomb markings indicating use of diverse munitions including GBU-31 and GBU-38/54 bombs, AGM-65 Maverick missiles, APKWS II rockets, 30-mm GAU-8 gunfire, and MALD decoys designed to confuse enemy defenses.
- Nose art on the aircraft followed a Nintendo/Super Smash Bros. theme with names like King Dedede and Samus, while some jets bore unique markings such as maritime kill marks on "Samus" indicating strikes on two Iranian vessels during maritime strike missions.
- The A-10s have increasingly taken on maritime roles, supporting U.S. naval operations and exercises by escorting submarines and warships, and engaging small surface threats, reflecting their adaptability beyond traditional close air support roles.
- Additional markings, such as an F-15E tail with "So others may live" on "Ridley," hint at involvement in recovery operations, while other symbols like an exploding pickup truck on "Kirby" remain subjects for further analysis.