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Close Air Support (CAS) Backs up Troops on the Ground and Affects Morale

• The A-10 operates at relatively low altitudes. It uses its 30mm cannons more frequently than any other weapon. These allow greater accuracy than bombs, which is of particular value when the troops being supported are in close proximity to the enemy.
• Low-flying aircraft are also highly visible. This boosts friendly morale and intimidates enemies.
• In recent conflicts, the air defenses have been unsophisticated, mostly consisting of small arms, rocket-propelled grenades, and some shoulder-fired missiles.

Other Assets that Perform the Mission, but There Are Drawbacks

• The USAF has other options for performing the CAS mission, including F-15Es; F-16s; B-1s; and, soon, the F-35A.
• Attack helicopters could provide CAS, but are, like all aircraft, also vulnerable at low altitudes.
• Other alternatives include converting A-10s to remotely piloted aircraft or developing a specialized unmanned aerial vehicle for the purpose.

Costs Are an Additional Concern

• The Air Force expects to save about $3.7 billion over the next five years.
• But this does not account for the costs of conversions or alternative aircraft.