Description
In Part V of the SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) series, host Mike “Flash” McVay sits down once again with A-10 pilot Ridge “Kelso” Flick to dive deep into the critical role the Warthog plays in SEAD and close air support operations. Drawing from his extensive experience flying the A-10 in hostile environments, Kelso shares insights into how low-level tactics, survivability, and precision targeting come together in the face of modern air defense threats. From Cold War-era training to post-9/11 combat deployments, this episode explores how A-10 pilots adapted to evolving SAM and AAA threats while maintaining their mission to protect ground forces. Kelso’s perspective offers a unique look at the intersection of close air support and SEAD, highlighting the courage and coordination required in every mission.
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Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Modern Warfare and SEAD Concepts
02:45 Customer Perspectives on SEAD in Conflicts
06:07 Evolution of Air Defense Systems
08:47 Challenges of Modern Air Operations
12:05 Planning for Air Operations
14:59 The Role of Technology in Future Warfare
17:53 Offset Strategies in Military Planning
21:11 The Relevance of Air Breathing SEAD
23:48 Future of Air Operations and Joint Forces