On a good note, it appears the A-10 has had a reprieve of at least two years, a admission that it is premature to retire this asset in the inventory.
There has been some publicity over the last few months regarding the ultra-restrictive R.O.E over in Iraq & Syria. There is no lack of airpower - probably too much given the targets, but more often than not it is not able to be used due to the over the top R.O.E, perhaps even worse than seen over Nth Vietnam with major micro-management happening. It would be great if the powers at be could loosen up a little and finish this bloody mess!
http://100percentfedup.com/hands-tied-u-s-air-force-complains-about-rules-of-engagement-in-fight-against-isis/#
Sortie rates had been very low as well in the past - wonder if they have picked up some? I honestly can understand why the Russkies stepped in, now with the French and Brit's as well, the place will end up looking like the moon. It must be a nightmare trying to coordinate all this airpower on what must be a very limited target list and ultra-restrictive R,O.E. Maybe cross-trained lawyers would be better in the cockpits? Wonder when they will accept that a lot of boots on the ground are required to totally get rid of ISIS? If it was up to me, I'd say Russia, you sort out the south and west. France, UK, USA, Australia and anyone else who want to help will sort out the north and east of Syria and western Iraq - job done! No leaders seem to have the balls to sort this bloody and tragic mess out sadly. Serbia/Bosnia was sorted out - WTF can't the world get its act together and sort this out!
Old news but interesting reading.
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/05/27/world/middleeast/with-isis-in-crosshairs-us-holds-back-to-protect-civilians.html