American A-10 Thunderbolt attack aircraft could assist Ukraine in defeating Russia in the ongoing war, Kyrylo Budanov, Ukrainian Intelligence Chief, said in an interview with CNN on Jan. 31.

A-10 Thunderbolt.

A-10 Warthogs, despite their age, have gained renown for their effectiveness against Iraqi armored vehicles during the first Gulf War. Back then, the United States and a coalition of 35 countries decisively defeated the forces of Iraqi dictator Saddam Hussein following his invasion of Kuwait.

American pilots and soldiers praise the aircraft, even as the US Congress seeks to retire them from service.

“This is what can really help inflict a military defeat on Russia,” Budanov said.

Kyiv needs more military aircraft like the American A-10 Warthogs and long-range cruise missile-carrying aircraft, Oleksandr Syrskyi, the Commander of Ukrainian Ground Forces, said on Jan. 12.

A-10 Warthogs would provide crucial support to ground forces. The aircraft is designed to target ground-based assets, including tanks, artillery, and anything opposing infantry, Syrskyi said.

Ukrainian Defense Forces will also significantly strengthen following the initial deliveries of F-16 aircraft, said Yuriy Ihnat, a spokesperson for the Ukrainian Air Force.