Numbers don't add up

I have written before about the ongoing argument in D.C. about replacing the A-10 Warthog airplane with the new F-35 Joint Strike Fighter. The F-35 is a remarkable aircraft capable of speeds up to 1,200 mph, increased stealth capabilities, and substantial upgrades in electronics.

According to a June 16 report by Jane's Defense Weekly, the cost per plane is $120 million with the cost projected to fall to $80 million by 2021, according to a Lockheed Martin official. The actual cost per plane will differ depending on variance and capabilities in different models. One of the future capabilities of the F-35 is close air support for ground forces.

On June 18, 2015, the nonpartisan U.S. Government Accounting Office released a report that questions the F-35 program figures being presented by the Air Force. Part of the Air Force's justification for the F-35 has been the savings realized by shutting down use of the A-10. The GAO said that the Air Force savings estimates do not form the "reliable basis from which to develop and consider alternatives to achieve budget targets."

The A-10 does not come close to the potential capabilities of the F-35 in a ground support mission. The key is the word "potential." The F-35's ground support capability is still only a projected future modification. While that may or may not develop, the A-10 is in service now and can provide the close support needed by ground forces.

Apparently there is Congressional disagreement with the Air Force projections. Last week the Senate approved the National Defense Authorization Act by a 71 to 25 vote. The bill includes operational funding for the A-10 for another year, but President Obama has threatened to veto the bill.

In my opinion, technical advancement is critical to our defense needs, but changes should not be implemented until the technical advancements exceed the existing capabilities. Discarding your weapon during a war because future weapons will be better is just plain stupid.

Jack Dragoni attended Boston College and served in the U.S. Army in Berlin and Vietnam. He lives in Chaffee, Missouri.