Aviation News – July 1, 2025 – Earlier this week, the U.S. Air Force disclosed plans to retire its entire fleet of 162 A‑10C Thunderbolt II “Warthogs” as part of its 2026 fiscal year budget. The aircraft, originally slated for phase‑out by 2028–2030, will now be fully retired by September 2026
The move marks one of the largest single-year retirements in recent history, forming part of a broader divestiture of 340 aircraft across various types, including F‑16s, F‑15s, C‑130s, and moreThe Air Force has requested $57 million in the 2026 budget to facilitate decommissioning and retirement activities
The A‑10, a Cold War-era jet introduced in the 1970s, has earned legendary status for its rugged design and unmatched close air support capabilities—especially its GAU‑8 Avenger cannon, dubbed the “BRRRRT”. Despite its storied history, Air Force leaders maintain that the platform is increasingly vulnerable in modern, contested airspace, lacking the survivability of newer designs.
This accelerated timetable represents a significant shift from previous plans, which called for a gradual phase-out by 2028 or 2029. The adjustment responds to Department of Defense directives to reallocate around 8% of spending toward modernization—including investments in next-generation platforms like the B‑21 Raider, F‑47 sixth-generation fighter, and upgrades for the F‑35 and F‑15EX.
While Congress has intervened in the past to preserve some A‑10s—citing continued operational need—the complete and expedited retirement plan now awaits legislative approval, which faces uncertainty.
