5 Reasons Why the A-10 Warthog Shouldn’t Be Retired
YouTube / Future Machine Tech
For decades, the A-10 Thunderbolt II affectionately known as the “Warthog,” has been a symbol of American air superiority in close air support missions.
Despite its legendary performance, there have been ongoing discussions about retiring the aircraft in favor of more modern and versatile platforms. Here are five reasons why the A-10 Warthog shouldn’t be retired.
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1. Unrivaled Close Air Support Capabilities
The A-10 is unmatched when it comes to providing close air support to ground troops. Its design—built around the 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger rotary cannon—makes it ideal for taking out tanks, armored vehicles, and other ground targets.
The aircraft’s ability to fly low and slow over the battlefield allows it to engage enemy forces with precision, offering unparalleled support to soldiers on the ground.
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2. Proven Combat Record
The A-10 has consistently demonstrated its value in combat situations. During Operations Desert Storm and Iraqi Freedom, the Warthog destroyed more than 900 Iraqi tanks, 2,000 military vehicles, and 1,200 artillery pieces. Its performance in Afghanistan and Iraq has solidified its reputation as a workhorse in modern warfare.
The Warthog’s success isn’t just about firepower—its ability to survive extreme combat conditions has been crucial. In numerous instances, A-10s have returned to base with severe battle damage, including missing engines, hydraulic failures, and blown tires.
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3. Cost-Effectiveness
One of the key arguments in favor of retiring the A-10 has been the cost of maintaining an older aircraft. However, the A-10 is, in fact, one of the most cost-effective planes in the U.S. Air Force’s inventory.
Its operational costs per flight hour are significantly lower than those of modern stealth jets like the F-35. In an era of constrained defense budgets, maintaining a fleet of A-10s offers a financially viable option for providing CAS without the need for expensive cutting-edge technology.
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4. Enhanced Modernization
While the A-10 was originally designed in the 1970s, it has undergone significant upgrades that have kept it relevant on modern battlefields. The introduction of advanced targeting pods, GPS-guided munitions, and digital avionics has transformed the Warthog into a modern CAS platform capable of handling current combat challenges.
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5. The Human Element: Ground Troop Confidence
Perhaps one of the most important but often overlooked reasons for keeping the A-10 in service is the psychological effect it has on both friendly forces and the enemy.
To ground troops, the sight of an A-10 circling overhead provides an immediate morale boost. Soldiers know that the Warthog is there to support them, delivering precise and overwhelming firepower when they need it most. Its distinctive sound—the “BRRRRT” of its Avenger cannon—has become synonymous with salvation for troops pinned down by enemy fire.
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Conversely, the A-10 strikes fear into enemy forces. Many opponents recognize the A-10’s firepower and precision, making them think twice before attacking ground forces supported by Warthogs.
