The US Air Force is actively attempting to eliminate the A-10 Warthog program, despite congressional intent, through institutional neglect, resource starvation, and bureaucratic maneuvers. The fleet has been cut from nearly 350 aircraft in 2013 to 103, with plans for further reduction to 54 by next year. The Air Force buried positive A-10 vs.
F-35 fly-off results until 2023 and sidestepped divestment restrictions by shifting aircraft to backup status and reducing funding, including a 90 percent cut in 30mm ammunition in 2018. Recent actions include accelerating squadron deactivations, like the 47th Fighter Squadron, ahead of NDAA approval, and prematurely closing A-10 depot maintenance at Hill AFB in February 2026, violating FY26 NDAA Section 147(b)(1)(A). During May 20 testimony, Air Force leaders, including Secretary Troy Meink and Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach, provided inadequate answers to congressional representatives regarding the F-35's and F-15EX's ability to replicate the A-10's Close Air Support (CAS) and Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) capabilities. Gen. Wilsbach incorrectly claimed CSAR is a subset of CAS, revealing a lack of senior-level understanding of these distinct missions and raising questions about the Air Force's retention of associated budget allocations.
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