The US Air Force still relies on the A-10 Warthog due to its unmatched combination of loiter time, low altitude survivability, pilot visibility, and firepower.
This reputation was earned in the deserts of Iraq and Afghanistan where the aircraft proved devastatingly effective against a wide variety of targets.
Retiring the fleet now would create a measurable close air support gap for ground forces.
The A-10's exceptional loiter time allows it to stay over friendly troops, watch, and engage, making it an invaluable asset in combat situations.
The GAU-8 Avenger, a 30mm rotary cannon, is the aircraft's most distinctive feature and a major contributor to its effectiveness.
Ground troops who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan developed an almost visceral attachment to the sound of the gun, known as 'brrrrt..'
The A-10's durability and ability to operate from austere forward airfields are also key factors in its enduring presence on the Air Force inventory.
This singularity of design makes it difficult to replace with a multirole platform, and the aircraft's exceptional pilot visibility is crucial for effective close air support.
The US Air Force has proposed retiring all 162 remaining A-10s in FY2026, but Congress has limited divestment and required at least 103 aircraft to be retained through September 30, 2026.
The A-10's unique design makes it difficult to replicate, and its exceptional loiter time and firepower are crucial for ground commanders.
