[onewhippedpuppy]

So on the topic of the A-10, they have already exceeded their design life significantly and are maintenance hogs, pun intended. All of the fielded aircraft were re-winged and had some significant structural upgrade/repair work done the last time we decided to not retire them. They are very useful so they get flown a LOT. Eventually they just get worn out and are not practical to keep flying. They are also overkill for the job, modern CAS is taking out a Toyota pickup or some guys setting an IED, not a tank. So there are a number of cheaper options that when paired with modern precision weapons are a much better value proposition. But none are as cool. Seeing an A-10 strafing run from an observation tower at a military range was freaking awesome, and I have several friends that are current/former Hog pilots that adore them.