The Battlefield Website (thanks Frans) has news that Battlefield 2142 is gold, following that up with word that this is actually fool's gold, as the game is still being subjected to final quality assurance testing which must proceed the declaration of a true gold master. So while this announcement in fact only signifies the submission of a gold master candidate, it is still a good indication that the game will be released soon. Here's word:

EA and DICE are pleased to announce that Battlefield 2142 has gone gold. Meaning that after months of internal testing and balancing, the game has been handed over to the quality assurance team for final testing. Congratulations to everyone involved, and a big thank you to everyone involved in the Beta testing.