[wbill]

True enough, but do you need a tank-busting cannon to take on a dozen militants holed up in a cave with a mortar or two?

.....and, yes, I know the flip answer is "Sure! Why not?" ..... but really? Would it be better to have less firepower more readily available, or more firepower that's less readily available?

I dunno - that's why I'm asking. There's got to be a FAC on FR, somewhere.

[tanknetter]

Burt Rutan had a really neat concept ban in the 90s for a light ground attack jet. Called ARES, it had a 20mm Vulcan and a very well thought out design. Slightly forward swept wings for maneuverability, the jet intake on the side if the fuselage opposite the gun to avoid gas ingestion problems.