The US Air Force has announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog attack aircraft's service life until at least 2030, delaying the retirement of the storied plane following its active role in recent Middle Eastern conflicts. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink confirmed the decision, stating it 'preserves combat power as the Defense Industrial Base works to increase combat aircraft production.'
The A-10 Thunderbolt II, introduced in the 1970s, has been a cornerstone of close air support, anti-tank operations, and combat search-and-rescue missions. Despite being designed for Cold War-era conflicts, the Warthog has proven its value in modern theaters, particularly against Iranian-backed militia groups in Iraq and during operations directly involving Iran.
'Long live the Warthog,' Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth remarked in response to the decision.
The Air Force has previously sought to retire the A-10 in favor of newer F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters, but doubts persist about the F-35's ability to match the Warthog's performance in close air support roles. Congressional intervention has repeatedly delayed the A-10's retirement, with the latest pushback extending its service by an additional year beyond the previous 2029 timeline.
Currently, the Air Force operates approximately 160 A-10s, which have been instrumental in recent missions such as Operation Epic Fury, targeting Iranian fast boats in the Strait of Hormuz and enforcing blockades of Iranian ports. The aircraft also played a critical role in rescuing the crew of a downed American F-15 fighter jet over Iran earlier this month.
Equipped with a 30mm Gatling-style autocannon, the A-10 remains a formidable force in ground combat, embodying American military ingenuity and resilience in an era of evolving battlefield challenges.