Well, they would have been much better off (if they wanted to live) by just walking home in small groups. Incredibly, these guys just don't seem to understand the capabilities that modern military forces are able to employ against ground-confined armoured units. It's not just the aircraft but the whole package that's so devastating.  I think it takes a lot of brainwashing to get a soldier to sit inside an armoured vehicle when your side doesn't have air superiority.

I remember a conversation with a US Army tank jockey many  years ago while taking a Greyhound bus home from college. He was totally convinced that armour was the way to go. I was amazed that he could believe that his tank could survive without friendly air cover.  

I can swear there ain't no heaven but I pray there ain't no hell. _ Blood Sweat & Tears