I guess I missed something... I was under the assumption that the push to end the use of the A-10 was thwarted. This piece insinuates it is done in 5 years... being replaced with the F-35 monstrosity.
Are we replacing all our aircraft with the F-35? Soon they will come up with a heavy lift version to replace the Galaxies and 130s, too. The 35 is such a wondrous airplane!
The A-10 (sadly) is going to be retired. The move to fast-track that retirement has be thwarted, but the service Chiefs are looking at their budgets and training programs and they see the inevitable.
Their weapon procurement program (F35) is crowding out other budget & mission priorities. This is why they (attempt) tell you with a straight face that the F-35 will perform the CAS mission, when in truth the USAF is getting out of supporting the infantry.