In keeping with the Annual Meeting Theme of "Observations Lead the Way", this panel discussion addresses the scientific opportunity afforded by the availability of a storm-penetrating aircraft.  Investments by the National Science Foundation (NSF) provide for modifications to an A-10 aircraft made available by the U.S. Air Force to NSF and the addition of the aircraft as a requestable asset within the Lower Atmosphere Observing Facilities (LAOF) managed for NSF by the Earth Observing Laboratory of the National Center for Atmospheric Research.  The panel will be comprised of experts in a variety of atmospheric science subdisciplines that could benefit from such an asset.  Additionally, experts on aircraft operations will provide details on potential operational capabilities of the A-10.  Panel presentations and open discussions will seek community input as to the needs and benefits of such an observing capability, which will include required and desired instrumentation.