So, would the A10 be any use in an air to air with something fast and pointy - thinking post merge if they've not been picked off by LR weapons?
Short answer: no
Longer answer: only if the pointy nosed pilot is incompetent, however the Hawg makes a good helo killer as alluded to but it's really a moot point, the AIM-9X is just as good a helo killer.