Hmmm, this week's AW&ST has an article about the A-10 replacement. They want to do it with 2 types, first off a light weight low end attack aircraft (OA-X) such as the AT-6, to supplement the presence types, then a longer term A-10 replacement (A-X2) for medium threat theatres, such as the M-346 (the high threat theatres being the realm of the F-35, natch).
But where does the money come from for two new programmes?
"......since the F-35A was initially meant to replace the A-10, the Joint Strike Fighter buy may now be a bill payer for the OA-X and/or AX2....... The Air Force has backed away from statements that the F-35A is a one-for-one replacement for the Warthog, but the two aircraft will still directly compete for funding over the next few years...."
And the A-10/CAS has an awful lot of support on the Hill.
Still so confident on programme numbers?