The A-10 Warthog, an aircraft slated for retirement, now has a crucial role hunting Iranian fast attack boats in the Strait of Hormuz. General Dane Caine confirms.

The aircraft entered service in 1976 and became famous during the Gulf War. It carries a 7-barrel 30mm Gatling gun and achieved 95% operational readiness during the Gulf War.

Heavily armored with titanium pilot protection, it can fly on a single engine. Congress kept 103 aircraft in service. Apache helicopters have also been reassigned.