Pilots perform preflight checks in A-10 Thunderbolt IIs prior to take off at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Dec. 4, 2012. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Craig Cisek)

The A-10, long a symbol of durability for the Air Force, may be approaching it’s twilight years.  The Air Force has talked about cutting A-10 squadrons in cost savings moves, and the aircraft could be replaced by a JSF variant.  Shots of the A-10 surviving damage after the break: 

Lest we forget, the A-10 has always been known for being able to withstand a lot, and still get a pilot back to base.

Warthog returns to base after sustaining damage in 2003. (SSgt Jason Haag/United States Air Force)

As famously demonstrated by Pilot Kim Campbell in 2003 over Baghdad, is doesn’t take much canvas left on the frame for the A-10 to make it home.

Unimpressed by flight surface damage, try an engine.

Staff Sgt. Shane A. Cuomo/USAF

Yeah, it might not be the sleekest aircraft, but I still think it’s mighty pretty.

Pilots prepare for launch in A-10 Thunderbolt IIs at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea, Dec. 4, 2012. The planes were launching for a training sortie. (U.S. Air Force photo illustration/Staff Sgt. Craig Cisek)