House Republican: The Air Force is planning to cut three A-10 squadrons
Molly Riley/AP
Rep. Martha McSally said Wednesday newly announced Air Force plans show it will cut three A-10 Thunderbolt II squadrons.
The Air Force told a House committee it is committed to keeping six squadrons of the so-called Warthog, a favorite of infantry troops known for its massive nose cannon.
But McSally, a former A-10 pilot, said the current fleet includes nine squadrons and the service appears to be angling toward a reduction of the aircraft.
"It's the first time you've publicly said that you are going to go down to six squadrons," McSally, R-Ariz., told Air Force officials during a House Armed Services hearing. "I'd really like to know what those planning assumptions are of the six squadrons."
The reductions could begin within the next few years, McSally said.
But the hearing was abruptly ended due to House votes and her question was never answered by Lt. Gen. Jerry Harris, deputy chief of staff for strategic plans and requirements, and Lt. Gen. Arnold Bunch, military deputy for the Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, who both testified to the House committee.
US Air Force
When questioned by the Washington Examiner, the Air Force declined to comment on whether it plans to reduce the A-10 fleet.
"The Air Force is committed to maintaining a minimum of six A-10 combat squadrons flying and contributing to the fight through 2030," according to written testimony by Harris and Bunch. "Additional A-10 force structure is contingent on future budget levels and force structure requirements."
The Air Force attempted to retire the A-10 due to tight budgets in recent years but was repeatedly blocked by McSally and other members of Congress.
Earlier this year, the Air Force dropped any plans to get rid of the 1970s-era close support aircraft, which is widely respected among ground troops for its prowess and protection.
NOW WATCH: The Air Force's A-10 Warthog targets ISIS fighters with this massive gatling gun