Aviation News – The Air National Guard Air Force Reserve Command Test Center (AATC) has successfully deployed a new probe and drogue refueling capability for the A-10 Thunderbolt II, meeting an urgent combatant command requirement. This rapid modification ensures the legendary ground-attack aircraft remains versatile and operationally ready even as it nears the end of its service life.
Led by the AATC in early April 2026, the initiative involved a multi-organization effort to bridge a critical gap in aerial refueling availability within active theaters. The project centered on the development and installation of the A-10 Probe Refueling Adapter (PRA), which was first integrated into aircraft 79-0185. By addressing specific logistical constraints, the team has provided commanders with significantly more flexibility for mission planning and extended-range operations.
The modification serves as a vital bridge for the A-10C fleet, which traditionally relies on the Air Force’s “boom” refueling system. By introducing this adapter, the aircraft can now interface with a wider variety of tankers, ensuring that deployed units are not limited by the specific type of refueling assets available in their immediate area of operation. This change effectively maximizes the combat radius of the aircraft during critical sorties.
Technically, the PRA fits directly into the existing nose receptacle of the A-10C, converting the system to a probe-and-drogue configuration. This allows the “Warthog” to draw fuel from HC-130J Combat King II, MC-130J Commando II, and US Marine Corps KC-130J aircraft. This hardware shift is a game-changer for expeditionary logistics, as it allows the A-10 to leverage tactical tankers often used by special operations and maritime forces.
