Press Releases
Congressman Hamadeh Introduces the Bipartisan BRRRRT Act to Preserve the A-10 Mission and Protect U.S. Warfighters
Washington,
July 21, 2026
Congressman Abe Hamadeh proudly introduced the bipartisan Bolstering Recognition, Resurgence, Retention, and Remembrance of the Thunderbolt (BRRRRT) Act
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Abe Hamadeh (AZ-08) proudly introduced the bipartisan Bolstering Recognition, Resurgence, Retention, and Remembrance of the Thunderbolt (BRRRRT) Act, legislation aimed at preserving the A-10 Thunderbolt II mission. This legislation will ensure that warriors who serve on our front lines have the most lethal close air support until a certified replacement is operational. The BRRRRT Act, named after the "Brrrrrrrrt," sound the aircraft makes when striking enemy forces while providing close air support (CAS), requires the U.S. Air Force to maintain the aircraft through Fiscal Year 2033. Congressman Hamadeh is joined by Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) as co-leader, reflecting monumental bipartisan support. Cosponsors include Reps. Richard McCormick (GA-7), Derrick Van Orden (WI-3), Sam Graves (MO-6), and Cory Mills (FL-7). "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," said Congressman Hamadeh. "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." Background: The A-10 Thunderbolt II has served as the backbone of the U.S. Air Force's close air support mission for more than four decades, earning a reputation as a trusted platform for protecting American troops on the battlefield. In April 2026, at the request of President Donald Trump and Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the Secretary of the Air Force announced that the Air Force will keep the A-10 Thunderbolt II flying through 2030. According to the military, the Air Force "plans to extend two squadrons of A-10s to 2030, one active-duty squadron at Moody AFB and one reserve squadron at Whiteman AFB." While the Air Force has committed to maintaining the aircraft through Fiscal Year 2030, current plans risk reducing critical training and maintenance capacity before a certified replacement capability is available. |
