US to deploy A-10 Warthog attack planes in Middle East, contradicting earlier retirement plan in pursuit of deterrence against China and Russia
It is hard to see how a half-a-century-old design could successfully replace some of the USAF’s most capable fighters in the Middle East. (Photo: US DoD)
As regional security concerns and the US focus shifts, the Pentagon plans to swap modern fighter jets for A-10 Warthog attack planes in the Middle East, starting in April.
The US is contemplating sending A-10 Thunderbolt II (also known as Warthog) attack planes to swap for more advanced fighter aircraft in the Middle East. The freed-up modern jets are needed to accommodate the Pentagon’s deterrence aspirations against China and Russia.
The story, first reported by the Wall Street Journal, quoted retired USAF Maj Gen Larry Stutzriem saying that the Warthog remains relevant to the mission the US Central Command (CENTCOM) flies over the Middle East.
This seems like a contradiction, given that the USAF earlier this month said it seeks a speedy A-10 retirement to free up funding for
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