Second Look? Why The A-10 Warthog Is Being Retained Over High-Tech Potential Successors

The US Air Force is retaining the A-10 Thunderbolt II beyond initially planned retirement dates due to the aircraft's superior performance against low-tech drone threats deployed by Iran, with squadrons now expected to remain in service through 2029-2030. The A-10's advantages over the F-35 include significantly lower operating costs, higher readiness levels, and compatibility with new precision-guided rocket systems that cost $25,000-$40,000 per shot compared to $1 million+ for advanced missiles. Congress mandated the retention of at least 103 A-10s in 2026 to help preserve strategic missile stockpiles while maintaining effective close air support capabilities.