I think many have missed the key constraint on why these A/C are in the mix, "low cost light attack aircraft" is the program, jets are not low cost. Also both these airframes are already used for other applications/services around the world. Means more spare parts in the supply chain around the world, which supports the " low cost " element of the program.
But remember, this is my alma matter, "Low Cost" is like a
$7,000+ Coffee maker on a C-5 :sour:
USAF Retired TSgt David Goebel, at your service.
1980 - 2000 9 bases in 3 theatres in 20 years, what fun!