He “hopes” they don’t find themselves in an environment that doesn’t need what A10 can do, but the F35 cannot.
Hope is not a real good plan. And if they are openly talking about this gap, don’t think the Russians and Chinese are not going to exploit that.
Here’s a look at how far back they’re looking:
http://www.defensemedianetwork.com/stories/combat-dragon-ii-demonstrates-ov-10g-bronco-capabilities/