Abe Hamadeh Fights to Preserve the A-10: 'Do Not Retire a Proven Weapons System'

It makes a sound unlike anything else in the sky, a deep, mechanical roar that ground troops have learned to recognize as the cavalry arriving, and Congressman Abe Hamadeh (R-AZ) wants to make sure that sound keeps echoing over battlefields for years to come.

Hamadeh introduced the BRRRRT Act this week, legislation that would require the U.S. Air Force to maintain the A-10 Thunderbolt II through Fiscal Year 2033.

The bill's name comes directly from the distinctive noise the aircraft makes when firing its powerful cannon during close air support missions, a sound so recognizable it has become something of a legend among the troops who've heard it overhead at their most desperate moments.

"The A-10 has repeatedly proven itself on the battlefield, saving American lives and delivering unmatched close air support when our troops need it most," Hamadeh said. "The BRRRRT Act ensures we do not retire a proven weapons system before a certified replacement exists. This is about common sense, national security, and keeping faith with the men and women who depend on the A-10 in combat."

The Force Behind this Bill

The A-10 Thunderbolt II has been a cornerstone of the Air Force's close air support mission for more than four decades.

Built specifically to protect ground troops in the heat of battle, it has earned a fierce loyalty among soldiers and veterans for its toughness, raw firepower, and ability to fly low and slow in conditions where other aircraft simply can't operate.

The bill comes after the Air Force announced in April, at the request of President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, that it would extend two A-10 squadrons through 2030.

Additionally, Hamadeh argues that's not enough. His legislation therefore pushes that deadline to 2033, warning that current plans risk gutting critical training and maintenance capacity before a certified replacement is actually ready to take over.

Furthermore, Congressman Don Davis (D-NC) is co-leading the effort alongside Hamadeh, giving the bill genuine bipartisan weight. Several other House members have signed on as co-sponsors as well.

The bottom line for Hamadeh is simple: you don't bench a player that's still winning games just because you're hoping to draft someone better.