A-10 Warthog’s Combat Role Revived Amid Iran Conflict and Legislative Push
The A-10 Thunderbolt II, slated for retirement by 2029, saw renewed combat in the Iran war and may stay in service through 2037 if new legislation passes.
In the recent Iran war, the A-10 Thunderbolt II demonstrated its versatility by engaging fast-attack boats in the Persian Gulf and providing close-air-support for a rescue of two F-15E pilots in April. Although the Air Force had planned to retire the subsonic attack aircraft by the end of FY2029, Secretary Troy E. Meink announced an extension to FY2030 following its performance. Lawmakers, led by Abe Hamadeh and Don Davis, introduced H.R. 9780 - the BRRRRT Act - which would prevent the fleet from dropping below 126 operational planes and maintain that level through FY2033 or later.
The legislation defines replacement requirements, promotes foreign-partner transfers, and calls for experimentation with autonomous, AI-enabled, and semi-autonomous systems using the A-10 as a testbed. Recent upgrades, such as compatibility with GBU-39B bombs, APKWS rockets and the FALCO system, have broadened the Warthog’s mission set, supporting cost-effective strike options. If passed, the act could keep the 50-year-old aircraft flying and potentially lead to an autonomous variant, making the Iran war far from its final combat appearance.
Why it matters
The A-10’s continued use could shape U.S. close-air-support strategy and defense spending for years.
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