After a new series of images was released on October 10, observers and analysts noted that a U.S. Air Force A-10 attack aircraft displays new kill markings following its recent deployment within the Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility — a detail of particular interest given that the retirement of these platforms is scheduled for 2026. Specifically, the aircraft in question bears two Shahed-type drone markings on its nose, indicating that during its stay in the Middle East, it participated in interception missions and the subsequent destruction of such systems.
Expanding on the details, this news represents the first confirmation of an A-10 taking part in drone shootdowns in the region — a task that had previously been handled mainly by USAF F-16 and F-15 fighters. Regarding the origin of the images, it is worth mentioning that they were taken upon the arrival of twelve Warthogs at Portsmouth International Airport, located in New Hampshire. Specifically, the aircraft, which also carries an emblem depicting the Greek god Ares, is part of the second group of six aircraft that arrived at the airport.
In connection with this, according to the photographer who captured the images between October 7 and 10, all of the arriving A-10s bore their own serial numbers along with names of gods from Greek mythology. Moreover, based on other visible insignias, these aircraft can be identified as belonging to the 124th Fighter Wing of the Idaho Air National Guard, based at Gowen Field Air Base. This coincides with earlier reports that the unit had deployed its A-10s to the Middle East, where they were flown by pilots from the 190th Fighter Squadron during a six-month deployment.
Although few images of the Middle East deployment have been published so far, it is important to note that the A-10s were seen operating in the region equipped with light weapon loads. Among the visible armaments were the enhanced AGR-20F FALCON rockets, also used by the previously mentioned F-15 fighters, which have become one of the preferred weapons for drone shootdowns in recent months due to their lower cost compared to other air-to-air missiles. Additionally, the aircraft were armed with their signature and powerful 30mm GAU-8 cannon, as well as two GBU-54 JDAM guided bombs.
Given its ability to carry such weaponry, along with the A-10’s inherent characteristics, the aircraft proves to be an ideal platform for the mission it was recently assigned in the Middle East. In particular, while it is slower and less maneuverable than other fighters such as the F-15 or the newer F-35, the A-10 can remain airborne for longer periods and at a lower operational cost. Furthermore, its capacity to carry a larger payload makes it especially effective against drone swarms deployed in coordinated attacks.
Regardless of these factors, there are no indications that the U.S. Air Force has altered its plans to retire the remaining A-10 Warthog fleet next year, which currently consists of around 162 aircraft. This decision stems not only from the aging nature of the platform but also from the need to determine which aircraft will remain in service amid a defense budget reallocation proposed by the Trump administration — leading to an accelerated retirement timeline compared to the original plans that had envisioned keeping the A-10 operational until the end of the decade.
Images used for illustrative purposes
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