“The House Armed Services Committee inserted $683 million into the 2016 defense bill to stop the Air Force from retiring the A-10 Warthog. However, Air Force leaders said the service will have to mothball F-16s and delay the deployment of the F-35 in response to the move by the committee,” Military.com reports.  

“The Air Force has been considering plans to move some maintenance professionals from the A-10 program to the F-35.  However, this effort might be complicated if the proposed HASC marks hold up through the ongoing Congressional review process.”  

“While quick to praise the A-10’s service record, Air Force officials have consistently maintained that other aircraft, including the developing F-35A Joint Strike Fighter, will be able to perform close-air support missions.”