The A-10 was always one of the Infantrymans greatest friends. It’s ability to provide close air support is unmatched by other aircraft in the inventory. I don’t understand any of the logic behind the effort to retire it.
The idea is that because it can't protect itself against front-line fighters, it always needs top cover. But don't supersonic jet fighters doing CAS and strike missions in contested airspace have to have top cover, because it's hard to focus on those missions and also defend yourself against enemy aircraft?
OH the just think of the panic the HOG could have raised if it was in service WWII (European and Pacific Theaters) or Korean wars.
My suggestion is to paint United States Army on the side of it and give it to the grunts that love it and need it. It can get low and slow and put ordinance where it is needed even when close to the good guys.
It also looks like a cross so in the eyes of the Islamists. They see the Crusaders seeking their vengeance. (which is just about right!) Awesome airplane.
If someone were to tell me there was a better ground support aircraft in the works...OK; but from what I understand there is nothing to replace the A-10.
I guess they think helicopters can do the job??