The United States Air Force is preparing to retire the A-10 Thunderbolt II (“Warthog”), the most battle-proven, cost-effective close air support aircraft in history. This decision would dismantle not only one wing, but an entire network of units across the country that continue to serve on the front lines and in reserve forces with distinction.

The A-10 has saved countless American lives. It was built for one mission — to protect ground troops when they need it most. Its unmatched ability to loiter, absorb damage, and deliver precision firepower makes it irreplaceable in both high-end and asymmetrical threat environments. No other aircraft can do its job as effectively.

 
Threatened A-10 Units
If the FY26 budget proposal moves forward, these proud units and their legacies are at risk:

• 442nd Fighter Wing (AFRC) – Whiteman AFB, Missouri
• 355th Wing (Active Duty) – Davis–Monthan AFB, Arizona
• 23rd Wing (Active Duty) – Moody AFB, Georgia (74th & 75th Fighter Squadrons)
• 476th Fighter Group (AFRC, associate) – Moody AFB, Georgia
• 124th Fighter Wing (ANG) – Boise, Idaho

These units represent decades of combat experience, multiple deployments, and unmatched readiness. They have supported Tier 1 Special Operations, provided critical close air support in CENTCOM, and remain cost-efficient compared to many newer platforms.

Why This Matters
Irreplaceable Expertise: Thousands of pilots, maintainers, and support personnel have built careers around the A-10. Losing these aircraft means losing their skill, experience, and readiness.

Direct Impact on Troops: Army and Marine units on the ground rely on the A-10’s unique capabilities. Modern jets like the F-35 or F-15EX cannot replicate the Warthog’s role. I have heard first-hand stories

False Choice: Modernization should not come at the cost of destroying proven capabilities. Congress has signaled support for both — we do not need to divest to invest.
 
Our Call to Action
We call on Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, President Trump, and the U.S. Congress to:

• Halt the premature retirement of the A-10 fleet.
• Secure a replacement path for A-10 units like the 442nd, 355th, 23rd, 476th, and 124th before divestment.
• Preserve our close air support mission, ensuring America’s ground forces never fight without the Warthog overhead.

The A-10 is more than an aircraft — it is a lifeline for America’s troops and a symbol of the warrior ethos. Once these units are gone, we cannot get them back.

Sign this petition to tell Washington: 

Save the A-10. Save our Wings. Save American lives.