'Sandy' A-10s the Air Force says it no longer needs flew 'close-in gunfights' in high-risk Iran rescues

Gen. Caine said the A-10s, flying in their "Sandy" roles, were suppressing enemy fire during the rescue of the F-15 pilot.
Defense One

F-35, F-15 may take A-10’s combat-search-and-rescue role: USAF chief

F-15 Eagles and F-35 Lightning II fighters may take on future combat search and rescue missions, as the Air Force aims to retire the last A-10 Thunderbolt IIs by 2030, service officials told lawmakers ...