The United States Air Force has extended the operational service life of its A-10 “Warthog” attack aircraft until 2030, amid ongoing concerns over fleet modernisation and combat readiness, according to Air Force officials.
Air Force Secretary Troy Meink announced the decision, stating that the extension is intended to preserve combat capability while the defence industrial base increases production of newer aircraft. He said the move would help maintain operational readiness during the transition phase of the US air fleet modernisation programme.
The announcement comes as the ageing aircraft continues to play a role in US military operations, including recent activity in the Strait of Hormuz. According to reports, an A-10 aircraft was lost in the region during heightened tensions with Iran, with conflicting accounts regarding the incident. Iranian authorities claimed the aircraft was shot down, while US officials described it as a crash under investigation.
First introduced in 1976, the A-10 has remained in service for decades despite repeated proposals for retirement. US Central Command has previously acknowledged its use in operational missions, including maritime strike roles in the Gulf region.
The aircraft has long been praised for its close air support capabilities, particularly its heavy armament and durability in battlefield conditions. However, it has also faced sustained criticism within the Air Force, with officials describing it as outdated, costly to maintain, and increasingly unsuitable for modern warfare requirements compared to advanced platforms and emerging technologies.
Opponents of the aircraft’s continued service have argued that retiring the fleet would free resources for next-generation systems, including hypersonic weapons and advanced combat aircraft. Supporters, however, have warned that removing the A-10 without a dedicated replacement could weaken close air support capabilities for ground forces.
The aircraft’s future has also been shaped by political considerations. A significant portion of the A-10 fleet is based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in Arizona, a major employment hub and a politically influential region. In 2021, US Senator Mark Kelly successfully supported legislative provisions preventing early retirement of the aircraft without a suitable replacement.
Air Force officials have also raised concerns that maintaining the ageing fleet places additional strain on maintenance personnel and limits resources for newer platforms.
The latest extension reflects a continued balance between operational requirements and long-term modernisation challenges within the US Air Force.