Thunderbolts to Train Over Boise

BOISE, Idaho (AP) — Idaho Air National Guard A-10 Thunderbolt II jets will be flying over Boise starting Tuesday while U.S. Air Force ground personnel are in the city calling in simulated airstrikes in an urban environment.

Idaho National Guard spokesman Col. Tim Marsano says the 190th Fighter Squadron will be training through July 25 at altitudes between 10,000 and 15,000 feet. He says the aircraft don't have high-performance, afterburning engines and produce about as much noise as a small commercial jetliner. Marsano says there will be no live ammunition aboard the Thunderbolts.

Residents might see "Tactical Air Command and Control Specialists" and their equipment on Boise streets as part of the "Urban Close Air Support" training. Marsano says the training is important for pilots flying the specialized combat aircraft.