The U.S. Air Force will extend the service life of the A-10 Thunderbolt II attack aircraft until at least 2030, reversing earlier plans to retire the platform. The decision comes amid ongoing combat operations in the Middle East, where the aircraft continues to play an active role.

U.S. Air Force delays A-10 Thunderbolt II retirement to 2030 as aircraft remains active in Middle East combat operations

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  Air Force Secretary Troy Meink announced the move on social media, noting it was made in consultation with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The announcement signals a pause in the service’s long-standing effort to phase out the close air support aircraft. Troy Meink said: “This preserves combat power as the Defense Industrial Base works to […]

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